hen we first started “Chords and Coffee,” the goal was simple—bring people together through worship. This December’s Advent edition, playfully dubbed “Chords and Eggnog,” brought its own set of challenges, surprises, and, ultimately, blessings. Preparing a set of Christmas worship songs wasn’t easy for me. These aren’t songs I play often, so I stressed over doing them justice. Adding to the hectic season, there were last-minute hiccups: the coffee machine broke, our usual drink coordinator was busy, and even my wife, Caitlin, who intended to help, couldn’t make it. But somehow, it all came together.
It’s always a pleasant surprise to see who shows up. Sitting in our church lobby with hot chocolate, eggnog, and acoustic worship creates a space that’s intimate and unique—a stark contrast to a bustling Sunday service. I saw faces I didn’t expect, including folks I hadn’t seen in service recently. Watching them engage in worship and even help stack chairs afterward reminded me how God uses these moments of simplicity to connect us.
Christmas worship feels uniquely powerful. In a season where cultural traditions can overshadow faith, singing deeply meaningful songs like “Hallowed Manger Ground” and “Glory in the Highest” reminds us of the core of our celebration: God fulfilling His promises through Christ’s birth. As I wrestled with doubt and busyness leading up to the event, God reminded me, as He often does, that He works through us—even when we feel unprepared or overwhelmed. To me, that’s the real beauty of it all: God showing up, using our imperfect offerings to draw us closer to Him and each other.
Cody Martter,
Worship Leader
