This Season is Labeled…• Various holidays filled

with candy, thanksgiving, and present sharing.

• A time when families gather from near and far to spend time with one another.

But, For Many, This Time of Year

• Pain and sorrow.• Loneliness.• Anxiety.• Depression.• Stress.• Life/Societal Events

Some (Many?) Christians Even Express Despair

• Laws eroding a variety of freedoms we’ve enjoyed in our society.

• Growing persecution against Christians in this country.

• Rampant immorality. 1 Peter 4:3

So, How Can There Be Joy?• Because Jesus’ victory over death means Good News

to ALL who want deliverance from this world’s woes. 1 Cor. 15:55-57

• Because God celebrated His victory long before the world witnessed it first hand! Psalm 98

• Because joy is ultimately achieved not through holiday feel goods, but by sharing Christ with those who need hope found in Christ. Heb. 12:1-3