First Baptist Church (Montgomery, Alabama)
Thursday, May 17, 2012
 
 
 
"In that day you will say: “Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known
among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to
the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. Shout
aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of
Israel among you.”  —  Isaiah 12:4-6
 
 
As we celebrate this Season of Joy, I remember how much my mother enjoyed the Christmas season. She loved to decorate the house — almost every inch of it! We all had special assignments as we decorated the tree. She prepared wonderful Christmas foods and cookies. (Yes, even fruitcake.) And then there was the music! Joyous tidings rang out as she played familiar carols and sang the Arias from Handel’s Messiah. Those familiar melodies bring tears to my eyes as I remember how she taught me the wonderful story of God’s love for us made flesh as He gave us His most precious gift, His only Son, Jesus.
 
My mother went to heaven this summer and my family has felt much sadness because of her passing. But, she is enjoying Christmas in a special way this year as she spends it with Jesus! WOW! Can you imagine the joy? This year, as you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, let the Joy of Jesus fill your heart to overflowing!
 
 
Activity:
 
Few things give joy like music. Gather your family and some neighbors and go Christmas caroling at one of the many nursing homes in our area or to others who are homebound. For many who are unable to get out, this can be a way you can take the joy of Christmas to them.
 
 
Prayer:
 
Father, how great is our joy during this special Christmas time. Thank you for your special gift to us, Jesus. Help us to erase sadness this year as we share the Good News of our Redeemer’s birth with others. Amen.
 

Merry Christmas!
Beth DeBardeleben