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Good News of Great Joy
Luke 2:10 “…for see, I am bringing you the good news of great joy.”
Dear Franklinton Baptist Church Family,
As we enter this holy season, I am reminded of a moment a few years ago when I asked a Wednesday evening prayer group to share memories of Christmases past. What struck me was that not one memory centered on gifts received. Instead, every story was about family, friends, and even a stranger who was helped during the season. Some paused, overcome with emotion; tears of sadness, tears of joy, but then continued. Together we discovered that the greatest treasures of all are the memories we carry in our hearts. They are sacred, untouchable, and life-giving.
We worship in the power of memory, both joyful and painful. We live on the strength of what we recall. Christmas is not about the presents under the tree, but about the presence of family, friends, and even strangers who remind us of God’s love. I have often said that the best use of money is to build memories. When I look back over the years, I am amazed at the meals shared, the laughter and tears exchanged, and the countless moments of hospitality that have shaped my life and faith.
At its heart, Christmas is the celebration of one memory above all, the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I believe with all my heart that He was born of a virgin, the Son of God, the Rose of Sharon, the Son of David, our Bright and Morning Star, Immanuel, Counselor, and Prince of Peace. He is not only the Savior of the world, but my personal Savior.
In this Christmas season, I pray it will be a time of joyful memory-making for you and your loved ones. If you journal, write down the moments that matter. In years to come, you may smile or shed a tear as you revisit them, but you will find strength and hope in what God has hidden within your heart.
May this season be filled with the good news of great joy, and may the memories you make be treasures that last a lifetime.
Merry Christmas, dear church family!
In Christ’s love,
Dr. Richard Childress
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