Joy to the World!

Since the early days of the church, God's people have prepared for a celebration of Christmas, a special season of the church year called Advent, where we anticipate and get ready for remembrance and celebration of the great day on which the Savior was born.

The word Advent means "coming" and has reference to the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Actually, as long as we live here on earth, we are living in Advent in eager anticipation of His final coming!....or are we? Are we eagerly awaiting our Lord's return? It depends on how much we love Him.....how well we know Him.....our relationship with Him....how ready we are to meet Him.... Maybe that's something for us to think about during this Advent season.

As I purchase gifts for loved ones, I think of the wise men, who brought precious gifts to the baby Jesus, and I think, "Lord, what can I give you, for your wonderful gifts to me -- for your forgiveness, your salvation, your great love, your grace and mercy, your patience, eternal life.... and He says to me: "Precious child of mine: "Give me your heart. Give me your life."

As I put up Christmas lights, I think of Jesus who said "I am the Light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." As I bake cookies and breads, I think of Jesus who said "I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger."At this Advent Season, may Jesus Christ be the center of your activities, your adoration and your worship!

Marilyn Biggs