During this time of year, there are many that question whether or not we should say "Happy Holidays!" or "Merry Christmas!" The claim is that it might be an invasion of privacy or even an insult to those that do not know and worship Jesus Christ.

The truth is we live in a nation that was founded on God and His Word. Not only does our Constitution guarantee us the freedom to worship God, but we also enjoy the right and the responsibility as Christians to witness to others of the wonderful message of Christmas, not just during the Christmas season, but 365 days a year! Acts 1:8

The "fly in the ointment" if we will admit it, is not the message but the messengers of this wonderful message! If our actions matched our profession I am convinced that there would be a lot more people who would listen with a thirsty heart.

Peter tells us "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." 1 Peter 3:15

If we are honest, there could be no "happiness or merriness" without Christ! Jesus really is the "Reason for the Season!"

Let me encourage you to invite your unsaved and unchurched friends and family to this year's Christmas Cantata on Sunday Night Dec 11, 2011 at 6pm. I pray the every member of GPBC will use this Christmas season as an opportunity to share "the reason of the Hope that is in you...with meekness and fear!" May those that do not know Jesus personally meet and see "Christ in you the Hope of Glory!" Col 1:27

Don't forget that Christmas, December 25th is on Sunday this year! We will not have a Sunday School hour at 9:45am as we normally do, however we will have a worship service at 11am on Sunday Morning and Christmas @ GPBC at 6pm. Please mark you calendars now and make plans to celebrate Christ birth with us!

Oh, and by the way, it's "Merry Christmas!"

God bless you!

Preacher