Joy To The World

Last year was a tough one with the death of our pup, Chica, a Christmas away from Natalie’s folks and a variety of issues that just made me think where is the joy. You tell yourself that Christmas is all about celebrating family and friends, the birth of Christ and good will towards all people but the reality is life happens. I put my counsellor hat on and think “Am I hypersensitive to the ugliness of events during what is supposed to be a festive time?” So often we can power through the tough times outside this time of the year but can feel rather deflated waiting for the other shoe to drop in this season of good cheer.

There is an answer and this year it is proving to be a God send; read the Psalms.

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. Ps 96:1-3

Isaac Watts used several pieces of scripture as inspiration as he penned his famous carol including Psalms 96.

Joy to the world the Lord has come, let earth receive her King.
Let every heart prepare Him room.
And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and heaven and nature sing.

The trials and tribulations of the world are with us every day but the Glory of the Lord outshines the darkness and if we look to the Light, we will know His perfect joy and peace.

This Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, we look at how we can all lean on the Joy of the Lord for inspiration and strength. Services start at 10:30 MST and can be seen live on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MainAvenueFellowship/) or viewed afterwards on our website (www.mainavefellowship.blogspot.ca).

Blessings
Pastor Todd