Letter From the Pastor
Isaiah 9:6 (CEB) A child is born to us, a son is given to us,
and authority will be on his shoulders.
He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
The Joy of Christmas: A Celebration of Faith and Divine Love
Christmas is filled with theological joy as it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s promises, the embodiment of hope and salvation, and the deep love of God made manifest to humanity.
Our theme for Advent has been “Joy to the World.” Over the past four weeks, we have explored joy through the lens of Advent, a season marked by anticipation and preparation. Advent is symbolized by pregnancy—a hope-filled waiting for something extraordinary to come. This journey of anticipation reaches its climax at Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Christ.
Christmas is a season that radiates joy—not just through the twinkling lights, festive music, and gift-giving, but in its profound theological significance. At its heart, Christmas is a celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth, the fulfillment of God’s promises, and the embodiment of hope and salvation for all humanity.
The joy of Christmas begins with the greatest gift of all: God’s love made manifest in the birth of His Son. As John 3:16 reminds us, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son." This extraordinary act of love is the foundation of our celebration. It’s not about what we give or receive, but about what has already been given to us through Jesus.
When the angel appeared to the shepherds, as recounted in Luke 2:10-11, the message was one of unparalleled joy: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord." The announcement of Christ’s birth wasn’t just a momentous occasion—it was the fulfillment of centuries of prophecy and God’s promise to bring salvation to His people.
Christmas also reminds us of the hope we have in Christ. In a world often filled with uncertainty and challenges, the birth of Jesus is a beacon of light, reassuring us of God’s unwavering faithfulness. The constancy of God’s love is something we can cling to, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.
In addition, the season is a time to reflect on the salvation we receive through Jesus. Romans 6:23 tells us, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." The joy of Christmas isn’t fleeting; it’s eternal because it points us to the ultimate gift of life with God through Christ.
As we sing carols, share meals with loved ones, and exchange gifts this Christmas, let’s pause to remember the true reason for our joy. Jesus is the reason we celebrate, the source of our hope, and the foundation of our faith. Let us celebrate not only with gladness but with a renewed commitment to live out the love and grace He has shown us. Merry Christmas!
May this season fill your hearts with the joy that only Christ can bring,
Pastor Anny+
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