Thursday, December 21, 2006

Hope of the World

Hope of the world 
 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

What would our lives be if we did not have hope that we will have a great day and a life ahead of us?

As people of faith we thank God for his continuing presence in our lives and the strength of our faith that has become more well founded as the years go by. In Christ we discover and apply our spiritual gifts to bring glory to God. We love to worship and pour over His word. We find our niche in serving the poor and needy with our gifts and abilities.

Yet there are many who have lost hope and are living in darkness. Let us share our spiritual life experiences with them that the things we hope for may become a new living hope in their lives. Let us not let any opportunity slip by where another may be dressed in the same raiments of glory that adorn us. The awareness and the presence of Jesus brings hope. Christ is coming again! Brings hope! Let us seize this time to share our message of hope to all of human kind.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Fires of Joy @ Christmas

Feux de Joie

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice . Philippians 4:4

Christmas is here! It is a time when many of us as Christians will gather with family and friends and enjoy our time. It is indeed a time when we open presents and eat a lot of good food. We rejoice with the members of our church and enjoy the fellowship we share with one another.

Bonfires light up the river banks of the Mississippi from Baton Rouge to New Orleans to steer Papa Noel as he sails down the river in his paddle boat . The celebration is called Feux de Joie (Fires of Joy). Let this be a time when we have feux de joie burn in our hearts and pass it on to all those we meet during this season. Let us be guiding lights to those walking in darkness and steer them to see Christ, the light of the world, the savior of the world is born.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, as we enter into this season of celebration, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. May our hearts be filled with the joy of His birth, and may this joy overflow to all those we encounter. Help us to be shining lights in a world filled with darkness, guiding others to experience the true meaning of Christmas. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.