Dear Friends in Christ,

     It was an absolutely wonderful experience! Linda and I had been invited by friends to attend the Gaither Family Christmas Gathering in Charlotte a couple of weeks ago, and it was such a blessing to us. We consider the Gaithers to be the premier Christian song writers of our generation and love performing their songs in many of the programs we present. "Something Beautiful" and "Because He Lives" are in our United Methodist Hymnal, a testimony to how deeply their music has touched the lives of believers today. And singing Christmas Carols with them and the thousands of other believers in attendance was a joy!

     As I write this column, I'm preparing for our own special Christmas Eve Service tonight, where again we'll be singing the songs that celebrate this wondrous intervention in human history, sharing in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, which emphasizes the reason for this miraculous birth, and how I'm looking forward to looking out over a sea of candles raised high above our heads as we sing "Silent Night" together.

     I think it's a beautiful way to prepare for the coming New Year. Jesus is born in Bethlehem as the beginning of God's new covenant in love for all who receive him as Savior and Lord. And as we stand on the threshold of the New Year, it's good to have been reminded that God so loved the world (that means each and every one of us) that he sent His only son, that whoever would believe in Him would not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). That means God is for us, God loves us, God is with us ("Emmanuel"), and God provides the means we need to find Abundance in Joy in life.

     As we begin this New Year, let us face the future together, bound together in Christian love by His Spirit. And as we face the uncertainties that are out there, let us remember the words of Scripture that the Lord will "neither leave us nor forsake us." How beautifully God underscored the truth of that when Jesus came to dwell among us. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us! We have His living presence and we have each other in the Body of Christ.

     Linda and I want to express our deepest appreciation for the love, the cards, the gifts, and the many kindnesses you have extended to us during this holiday season -- and all year through. It continues to be a blessing for us to have the opportunity to be part of the Rehobeth Church family. We wish each of you a Happy New Year!

Yours in the Love of Christ,

Bob

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