ACF Church: A Community of Lights

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 Merry Christmas! This is the season we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It is my favorite season of the year because the joy is almost tangible everywhere you go. People tend to be kinder, sweeter, and jollier. I love the lights, and I get to openly listen to Christmas music instead of just in my headphones. This season has some extra sparkle to it, as I rejoice in the reason for the season alongside a community of believers who love Jesus and His people. 

ACF Church in Eagle River is focused on reaching out to the hearts of the community. One of the ways we do it is through the free Christmas Light Show. I want to highlight that this would not be possible without the generous hearts of volunteers. Volunteers and staff have been setting up lights in negative temperatures and snow for weeks. The cold was brutal, the snow created obstacles, and the electrical breakers required extra TLC.

The first day of the event was December 1, 2021, and seeing the kids' eyes sparkling with joy made it all worthwhile. People looped through multiple times because they enjoyed it so much, and some even got out and walked through it again. I loved every minute of welcoming the community into the tunnel of lights.  Jeremy from Channel 2 News captured the show's essence in a quick interview with Pastor Stuart.  

The brightest lights of the night were the serve team members who showed up to love the community. Some of my service team from ACF Kids dressed in costumes and stood for two hours in the cold to wave, smile, and welcome people to the lights. It was beautiful to see them finding connections, joy, and offering hope to others.

                     

The Eagle River High School Hockey Team showed up to wave at people on the street side, hold signs, and bring joy to the town. They stood in the snow for two hours, and I never heard one complaint. They laughed and cheered as cars drove past. They waved and danced and brought energy to the light show. After speaking with their coach, I learned they want to be more involved in the community, not just on the ice. They are looking for opportunities to give back. I am impressed by their hearts to serve others and be connected to Eagle River's people. Therefore, I want to encourage all of you to go support them Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 7:15 pm. They will be at the Mac Center and take on Chugiak High School in a special night of hockey and community building. They want you to bring a teddy bear as they collect Toys for Tots. These boys and girls are giving back to the community in various ways. 

I am so grateful to be part of a family of believers and a community of servant leaders who strive to bring light to the darkness. So, I hope you and your family and friends will take the time this Christmas season to drive through the lights up through December 20 from 6 pm - 8 pm. Come prepared to tune the radio to 89.7, turn off your lights, bask in the glow of community, and enjoy the show.  We hope you have a very Merry Christmas!



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