Wow, it's almost Christmas again! For many people it is a great time of happiness, anticipation and spirits are high. This isn't true of everyone, especially those of us who may have lost a loved one recently or even a beloved pet. Sometimes we just don't have control of our feelings. But we can DECIDE to be happy. Scientists tell us that even smiling, causes our brain to think we are happy. Also, happiness is only fleeting no matter what. What we really need is JOY. What has that got to do with Christmas? Actually, everything. At this time of year (even though Jesus really wasn't born on December 25th) we have much to celebrate. An old, very old song beautifully expresses what the birth of Jesus can do for our psyche as well as our souls.
"O, come Thou Dayspring come and cheer or spirits by Thine advent here. Disperse the gloomy clouds of night. and death's dark shadows put to flight" *
Like Peter, when the waves around him threatened to take him down, he looked to Jesus. Jesus is the first step to that joy we mentioned. We trust that you know Jesus in a personal way, not just that he is the"man upstairs" or a theory or a myth, but that He is the King of Kings, Lord or Lords and Saviour of your soul. If you don't know Him in that way, right now is the best time to come to know Him. We would be glad to send you literature that can explain in full what this means and how you can know the joy that only He can give.
We trust that your Christmas will be merry and that you will have a prosperous, and peaceful New Year.
Once again, you may reach us at eandlhuested@comcast.net.

Ernie and LouAnn Huested


*" O Come,O Come Emmanuel" adapted and translated from a plainsong. The acutal time of the writing is unknown.