At this time, of year particularly, we remember the old Christmas Carols we used to sing - Joy To The World is just one of them.
But recently I have been feeling that there is not much joy in our world today. There is a lot of violence, vandalism, stabbing and murder as well as wars and rumours of wars. Even in neighbourhoods that used to be warm and friendly, fear fills people as they walk the streets even during daylight hours.
Small businesses and stores are suffering from vandalism. Scammers are everywhere taking advantage of the aged, weak, and poor. On top of that many people are having a difficult time living with their finances today. House prices have skyrocketed, groceries are too costly for many to afford healthy food to eat and share with their families. Rental quarters are difficult to find. Homeless people are growing in numbers often through no fault of their own. How do you sing: Joy To The World today?
Well, dear readers, I would like to encourage you to look around and see who is in our vicinity in need of help this cold winter Christmas- maybe we can help someone by providing a meal for the hungry, water or juice for the thirsty, clothing for people in need of warmth and a kind word for the lonely.
Because scammers use Christmas and all special events to try and take advantage of us, it probably would be safest to use trusted charitable organizations through whom you could volunteer or give to help those in need.
And you dear friends, there is a joy that is real and that will not let us down. It is the joy that people have found in the Christmas message each year. As a matter of fact, it will and does bring amazing joy to people every day of the year.
For God in His love for us did not withhold His Son from us, but gave Him up for us all that we might have forgiveness from ALL our sins and He promises eternal life to all who trust in Him. In Jesus, the Son of God, God the Father reaches down to us to give each and every one of us peace, joy, hope, and love. May you be filled with these His blessings and may you share them with others this Christmas.
From Christ The King Lutheran Church, we wish each of you a very Merry Christmas!
Pastor Emeritus Jorma Tuomisto
