God With Us Brings Joy

Joy was the foremost emotion when Jesus was born.

In Luke 2 we read about the angels announcing the birth of Jesus to the Shepherd. Luke 2:10 reads "But the Angel reassured them; 'Don’t be afraid!' he said. I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people." (NLT)

Jesus said that He desires for our joy to be full. Isn’t it great that our Heavenly Father is a God of joy? Joy is also listed as a "fruit of the Holy Spirit." In other words, as we abide or live in Christ, His joy will be present in our life.

As you live in Christ I pray for His abiding Joy to be very present in your life this Christmas.

This Sunday we will light the Advent Candle of Joy.

May his Joy burn brightly in your heart. Look for ways to share his joy with others this week. Reach out to someone who needs His joy.

It is an honor to serve as your Pastor.

God With Us Brings Hope

This Sunday December 2 is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent means coming or arrival. Because our Savior has come we have a living Hope. Advent also implies anticipation or expectation. The people of old longed for their Savior Messiah to come. Christmas reminds us that he came into our world to be with us. He has experienced everything we have or will experience and knows how to help in our time of need. Matthew 1:23 reads “Behold the virgin shall be with child and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated “God with us.”

What a comfort to know that God is with us. He is our Hope.

Join with me in prayer for our services tonight and this weekend. Invite someone
to come and worship the Lord with us.

It is an honor to serve as your Pastor.

What if Jesus came for Thanksgiving dinner?

What if Jesus came to your house for Thanksgiving dinner? How would you feel? Excited, worried, thankful? Well, Jesus always comes where He is invited.

In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus was invited to Mary and Martha’s home. Martha became frustrated while Mary just sat spellbound at Jesus feet. Read the story and see if you are more like Mary or more like Martha. I think I am some of both.

As Thanksgiving approaches let’s pray that we will be more like Mary as we serve like Martha. Sit and serve…we need both.

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday. It is an honor to serve as your Pastor.