2019 Worship Guide

2019 Worship Guide LINCOLN DAILY NEWS Wednesday, December 4, 2019 Page 9 Who has time to reflect on the hope of the season when running from store to store searching for that perfect gift? Who has time to experience a “silent and holy night” when you can barely get enough sleep as you try to keep up with all the programs, parties, and appointments you have on your calendar? The reality of this time of year, unfortunately, is that so much of what the season is meant to be gets stolen by the overwhelming holiday demands. It can be one of the most difficult times of the year. But remember when you are at your lowest and at the height of your stress, that’s when you can see the real reason for this season – our need for a Savior. The truth is, we don’t need another product. We definitely don’t need another task on our to-do list. We need a Savior! A Savior who can bear the burdens that are too heavy for us. We need a Savior who can comfort us in our sadness. We need a Savior who can strengthen us when stressed and a Savior who can bring peace into our chaos. You can have a Savior like that; His Name is Jesus. The Bible says in Matthew 1:21 , “He will save His people from their sins!” His arrival sends stress scurrying. His coming puts a halt to the invasion of everything destructive. Now, that doesn’t mean that everything in this world will be rosy and bright. What it does mean is the power and promises of God (the strength and the courage that comes from knowing Him by faith) will be yours no matter your circumstance! This is what Paul declared in Romans 8:38- 39, “…neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Do you remember Dr. Seuss’, The Grinch that Stole Christmas? The day after he stole all the Christmas decorations and even food in Who-ville, the Grinch thought he had won. From Mount Crumpit he stood listening for the cries of disappointment, but what did he hear instead? Singing! Songs of Christmas joy. CONTINUE