Dear Ones:
We’ve been singing, “JOY to the world, the LORD has come; let earth receive her King…” Ironically, He did come into the world that He made, but “the world knew him not.” That ignorance and rejection of Messiah has prevailed to the present day. Thankfully, our nation’s Biblical foundation has historically fostered and maintained a “Gospel light” to the world. Christmas became an annual phenomenon. Yes, this season has been commercialized and camouflaged with Santa, lights, and reindeer, etc.; but somehow the focus on the Christ-child was not completely lost. It’s painful, however, to witness the demise of our Christmas tradition. The rejection and resultant ignorance of the Bible has produced devastating consequences in our society as a whole. This has facilitated the advance of “progressive” liberalism which is attempting to “replace” our Judeo-Christian foundation. While we’re “asleep” the so-called “woke” folks are gaining ground. Enough is enough! Let’s get back to the Word of Truth!
Without Christ, Christmas is just another excuse to “party” and escape reality. In my world, depression, addictions, and suicides become epidemic; yes, it’s the “season to be jolly” but we’ve lost our way. Even our churches have failed to demonstrate the Spirit-filled life, worshiping (serving) God with the balance of Spirit and Truth. Sadly, too many Christian leaders are defeated and disillusioned, “falling by the wayside” in record numbers; while the sheep scatter, etc. BUT GOD! The Psalmist said, “It’s time for thee, LORD, to work; for they have made void thy law [Word].” (Psa. 119:126) “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.” (Isa. 59:19) Let’s ask God if somehow we could be part of that “standard” in this day?!
Our “persecuted” brethren world-wide learn how to “rejoice in the Lord” in the midst of suffering. But they may also be more “sold out” to Christ than most of us. Providentially that “wave” of persecution is headed our way; are we ready to endure a “season” of suffering? Let’s “fasten our spiritual seat belts” to meet the challenge of 2024.
After last Friday’s mission chapel, I met a frail young man in the hallway. He said, “Thanks, I’ve never heard anything like that before.” His hopeless countenance touched my heart; and as I hugged his emaciated body, I prayed for his salvation. He represents a “world” of young people who know nothing of Jesus Christ. Let’s “wake up” to the tremendous mission field right under our noses!
Belated Christmas greetings to you all! Thank you for your varied expressions of love during this season. I especially appreciate your prayers which God uses to make my “burden light.” May this New Year find you experiencing His genuine happiness and fruitfulness, despite the trials of daily living. (Phil. 4:13)
With heart-felt love to each of you,
Pastor Bill
Phil. 3:13, 14