Joy

The third candle of Advent symbolizes joy. Not the momentary and situation-based happiness, but true Joy.

Joy comes to Israel because their sins will be forgiven
Joy comes to Israel because their future will be glorious.

Sometimes it might seem to be a long wait for Israel, but in God's time, he will do it quickly.

Joy comes to us because our sins will be forgiven
Joy comes to us because our future will be glorious.

Mt. 26 tells the story of a woman who was rejoicing while weeping. Her joy because she was forgiven caused her to do irrational things. In turn, the enemy tried to steal her joy by emphasizing the urgent needs all around.

May our joy be sufficient to cause us to do irrational acts of giving this season.

God bless,
Pastor Wayne

Be Prepared

The second candle of Advent is the candle of the Way. Jesus is the way to heaven. The question is are you prepared?

J. T. Baptist came before Jesus proclaiming the way. For those who were listening, they heard, and repented, and were ready for the coming of the Messiah.

In Matt 25 we have the story of the 10 virgins who were waiting, but not all were prepared. The wait was long, and when the time came for the Messiah to come, half of them did not have enough oil to light that which needed to be lit. They were waiting, but not prepared.

As we wait for this glorious return of the Messiah, we know that things will be a bit dark before he comes. Do we have enough oil with us to see what we need to see? Have we stored enough of God's word in our hearts so that our path will be lit?

Be prepared so that our time of waiting will not be wasted.

Pastor Wayne

There is hope

In a world that was falling apart, Jesus came. The Roman rule was difficult, and justice was hard to find, but there was hope.

The prophets had talked about the coming of the Messiah, and the people were waiting. Jesus came that first Christmas to bring hope - hope for Salvation, and hope for forgiveness.

Now our world is turning dark again, and there is need of hope. Again, the prophets have foretold of the hope of Salvation for the nation of Israel, as well as for the Church.

We know that God will keep his word, and that our salvation is secure. As we light this candle, let us remember that the glorious future is very near, and continue to live with hope.

God Bless,

Pastor Wayne

playing word games

Some people love to play word games. It seems that the Sadducees and the Pharisees were doing their best to beat Jesus at this game.

Jesus allows them a few rounds, then he confronts them with one of his own -- Who's son is the Christ? Davids?

Jesus then goes on to give seven woes to these men for the word games they play in hiding their identity while making it very difficult for others to come to God.

Do we find ourselves doing the same thing as we try to impress others? If so, then the woes also apply to us.

Let us be honest and leave our position and reputation in God's hands.

Pastor Wayne