Nov 1, 2025
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.”
Isaiah 9:2
A Note from the Pastor
It’s hard to believe it’s already November! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and soon the sounds of Christmas will fill the world around us. While stores are setting out decorations and holiday ads are everywhere, this is also a powerful time for us as believers to prepare our hearts for what Christmas truly means.
This year, each week’s newsletter until Christmas will be your invitation to join me in a “Countdown to Christmas.” Over the next several weeks, let’s intentionally focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that came into the world when Jesus was born.
Before we rush into the hustle and bustle of December, November gives us a chance to slow down and look up. It’s the perfect time to realign our hearts with Christ — to remember that Christmas isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a story that changes everything.
Let’s begin the countdown together — one week, one prayer, and one act of love at a time.
Be The One with anticipation,
Pastor Shannon
The Countdown to Christmas Starts Now
1. Begin with Gratitude
Before the tinsel and trees, let’s start with thankfulness. November reminds us that a grateful heart prepares the way for a joyful Christmas.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1
Take time this week to thank God not just for what you have, but for who He is — the Giver of every good gift.
2. Watch for His Light
Time changes tonight, so as the days grow shorter and the nights darker, we are reminded of the promise that a light has come into the world. Jesus brings light into every shadow, hope into every hardship.
“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” – John 1:9
Ask God to shine His light in your life this month — in your home, your work, and your relationships.
3. Prepare Your Heart Early
Advent doesn’t start until December, but spiritual preparation begins now. Use this first week of November to refocus your priorities and make room for Jesus.
“Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.” – Luke 3:4
Maybe that means letting go of busyness, or carving out time each day to read Scripture. Whatever it looks like for you, start preparing now.
Church Announcements
- Tomorrow Night Sunday November 2:
Fireside Fellowship 5pm, Firepit, Hotdogs, Smores, and games for all ages. If you want to bring chili for the hotdogs you are more than welcome to do so. - Tomorrow we will be announcing something special we will be doing instead our regular Thanksgiving Giveback. It be just as special, I promise.
- Thanksgiving Series “I Give Thanks” starts tomorrow November 2.
This series looks at the thanksgiving prayers in Paul’s epistles and uses four different points of thanks that Paul offers to God as a way to inspire gratitude and praise in our hearts as we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Final Thought
November is more than just a month of falling leaves and pumpkin pie — it’s the doorway to the miracle of Christmas. As we step through it, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Light of the World.
The countdown has begun… (54 days till Christmas) and it starts right now, with a grateful heart and an eager spirit.
Do you want to rep Hector First Assembly with some fresh gear? We’re excited to announce official HFA merchandise is coming soon— HFA T-Shirts and Hoodies designed just for our church family!
This is your chance to wear your faith, show your support, and be part of something special we’ve been working on.
How to Get Yours
📅 Sign-ups open this Sunday!
🙋 The only way to reserve an HFA shirt or hoodie is to sign up in person.
💸Pricing will be announced very soon.
✨ HFA YTH Special!
We especially want our youth to be part of this! A sign-up sheet for HFA YTH T-Shirts will be available starting Wednesday night at Youth. We’d love for every student to have a shirt, so parents—be sure to grab one for your child!
🚨 Don’t Miss Out
Quantities will be limited to those who sign up. If you want to rep HFA in style—make sure you’re on the list!
BE THE ONE!