Arise, Shine!
If you could insert yourself into a Bible story, which one would it be? If I were to choose, the following Bible scene would be high on my list:
"And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!'" (Luke 2:8-14 ESV).
Imagine sitting in the field that night, and suddenly the angel of the Lord appears to you. Can you picture the glory of God turning the darkness to light and hearing that incredible message of hope for the world? Then, when you think it can't get better than this, the sky explodes with angels singing and praising God. Oh, what a night that must have been!
Today, we worship the Risen Saviour and continue to proclaim the Good News to those lost in darkness. Every year, our Christmas Blessing project brings a ray of light into areas of oppression and hostility. Listen to these words from a pastor who is ministering in Azerbaijan:
"The children were very happy to receive their gifts, and they also listened attentively to the story of Jesus, the real reason for Christmas. I really enjoyed seeing the children listen so well, and I believe that the Lord touched their hearts. Thank you for giving my church the opportunity to participate in the Gift of Hope!"
Every year, with your help, we can share the light of Christ through these small gifts which serve as an expression of love from the church in Canada to brothers and sisters in other parts of the world. In return, they receive these tokens of love and go forth to shine the Gospel to those who have not yet heard. They are willing to pay the earthly price to do so, knowing the heavenly reward will last for eternity.
For His glory,
Floyd A. Brobbel
Chief Executive Officer
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada Inc.
