Hello FBC Friends!
And I will give him the morning star. (Revelation 2:28)
This is a promise given by the exalted Christ to “the one who conquers” in His message to the church at Thyatira. What a powerful promise! “The morning star is Christ Himself (see Rev. 22:16), Israel’s ruler and rescuer, who was foreseen by Balaam, the unwilling seer (Num. 24:17).” (ESV Study Bible, pg. 2467) As we think about the Magi following the Star to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy from Numbers 24, may we also remember this great prophecy of promise to those who overcome and hold fast to the end! The One who came in such a humble manner the first time, whose location was found by the following of a bright star, is coming again in great power and authority, as “the bright morning star”! All praise to Him as we celebrate this Christmas!
Speaking of promises, one of the great characters of the Christmas story who was a recipient of God’s promise was Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. And get this – she is coming to visit us at FBC Brownsville this Sunday! She’s coming from a long way away, and from a long time ago, so make sure you’re here Sunday at 10:30 to see my interview with her on another edition of “30 Minutes”!
Also this Sunday, after the morning service, is our Annual Business Meeting, where we will celebrate what God has done in our midst in the year 2014, and vote on new church officers and the 2015 budget. If you want to check out what’s happening you are welcome to attend (You don’t have to be a member to attend, but you do have to be a member to vote.). Commission leaders, please come prepared with your reports.
Dec. 17 at 12:00 Noon is the Christmas lunch for our “Christian Adventurers” (the 55+ group). Details will be in the bulletin and on a sign in the foyer. Come join in a special time with friends.
Dec. 21 – In the 10:30 worship service, we will be in for a treat, as we will experience the Children’s Christmas Program. You won’t want to miss this! There will be singing, a dance number, some humor, and lots of beautiful children sharing the message of Christ’s birth with us.
— at 5:30pm we will have Christmas by Candlelight, our annual candlelight service. Always a special time of rejoicing in Christ, the light of the world, this intimate service will bless you and your family. Following the candlelight service, we will have a time of fellowship with desserts and finger foods, from 6:30-8:00. So come prepared to share some goodies together!
During this busy holiday season, remember to keep your eyes fixed on Christ, the bright morning star!
Love From Your Pastor,
Michael