As a worship leader - or for that matter, anyone involved in planning the Sunday morning programming - it seems like we work so far ahead that by the time Christmas roles around, I'm listening to new Easter music! And I personally have become jaded by every artist - of any faith - marketing an album of "new" Christmas music. I've found some solace however in Sirius channel 4 - classic sounds of the season - Dean, Bing, Frank, et al crooning the old songs and hymns. Love it!

Our church has a long standing tradition of singing "Silent Night" by candlelight at the conclusion of our Christmas Eve services. Because the advent season is so hectic for us, that song seems to signal the beginning of Christmas for me. Maybe it's because then, I can begin to relax a little...

Couldn't agree more Ron. I've been blessed to work for a Sr. pastor who encourages risk taking. There is so much to be learned from "failures." And sometimes, things don't go the way we plan them, but they turn out even better. "Safe" is such a dangerous place.

Obviously, if safety or share holders are at risk, that has to be considered. But if we don't step out, we risk missing the chance to see God move mightily.

On a lighter note:
Yosemite