Christmas Joy

It is said that George Frederick Handel composed his amazing musical The Messiah in approximately three weeks. It was apparently done at a time when his eyesight was failing and when he was facing the possibility of being imprisoned because of outstanding bills. Handel however kept writing in the midst of these challenges till the masterpiece, which included the majestic, “Hallelujah Chorus,” was completed.

Handel later credited the completion of his work to one ingredient: Joy. He was quoted as saying that he felt as if his heart would burst with joy at what he was hearing in his mind. Sure enough, listening either to the entire work of The Messiah, or to the "Hallelujah Chorus" brings great joy to one's heart.

Similarly, in the midst of the many challenges he faced, including chains, imprisonment, and slander, the Apostle Paul, filled with the joy that Christ gives, could say, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Phil. 4:4).

The message of the angel on the night of that first Christmas was… “And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’” (Luke 2:8–11)

May the joy of the Lord fill your heart today as we celebrate and worship the Savior. Sunday I will bring my annual Christmas message, I pray that it will speak to your heart, remind you of the incredible message of Christ’s birth and inspire you to give your life to the King who left His throne to bring personal hope, peace, and joy to our lives.

Reach the World Offering… will continue until the end of the year. As of now your generosity has set a new “Reach the World” offering record… over $173,000! Wow! We are already distributing your gifts to our ministry partners and hearing back from them about the blessing that these gifts are to their work for the Kingdom of God.

A few reminders… remember Sunday our Choir and orchestra will present their Christmas special twice… the first is at 3:00pm and the second at 5:00pm. I hope you’ll be able to make one and experience the inspiration of the season. Next Sunday at 5:00 “The Voices of Mobile” will be back for another Christmas concert—they are spectacular! And as always plan to be here for our Christmas Eve service at 6:00pm.

102.5 The Q… is our new Sunday morning radio address at 9:00am. Pass the word along. Also tune in to The Q Monday through Friday at 5:20pm to hear our two minute “Heart Truth” devotion. I am excited about this new opportunity to reach a new audience with the gospel message. Because God is always trying to take us someplace new! I love being your Pastor!

Merry CHRISTmas,
Pastor Ray