Today We Celebrate

“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 2:10–11)

An argument was put forth that it was unfair that atheists had no recognized days for their religion as other religions did. The case was brought before a judge. After listening to the passionate presentation by the lawyer, the judge banged his gavel declaring, “Case dismissed.” The lawyer immediately stood and objected to the ruling saying, “Your honor, how can you possibly dismiss this case? The Christians have Christmas, Easter, etc. The Jews have Passover, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, and Hanukkah.
 Yet my client and all other atheists have no such holidays.” 
The judge leaned forward in his chair and said, “But you do.
Your client, counsel, is woefully ignorant.”

The lawyer said, “Your Honor, we are unaware of any special observance
or holiday for atheists.”

The judge said, “The calendar shows April 1st is April Fools Day, and Psalm 14:1 states: 'The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.' Thus, it is the opinion of this court, that if your client says there is
 no God, then he is a fool.
 Therefore, April 1st is his day. Court is adjourned.”

Christmas is our day! Today’s advent candle is the white Christ candle. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior today, we are reminded that Christmas means:

• The Light of the world has come down into our darkness. Matthew 4:16 records, “The people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned.”
• It means that Salvation has appeared to those who could not save themselves-- “…and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21)
• It means that Hope has manifest in the presence of the Messiah--“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” “(which means, God with us).” (Matthew 1:23)
• It means Peace with God is finally available-- “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
• It means Joy has come to us that is unlike anything the world can offer-- “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” (Matthew 2:10)

So, Rejoice and celebrate Jesus.

And remember, just like the wise men, Jesus is always trying to take us someplace new. I love being your Pastor!

Merry CHRISTmas,
Pastor Ray