Hey, Church!
Recently, Pastor Tom has been challenging our staff to cultivate joy, which is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. There is not a whole lot, in the worldly sense, to be joyful about right now! If anything, it feels like the world around us is becoming increasingly angry and hopeless. As a result of the encompassing darkness, Tom observes, we have a unique opportunity to shine with the joy of Christ! Just think about how conspicuous and attractive a community of joyful people would be in our present time!
In addition to seeking a joyful spirit in God‘s word and asking him to stir it up within us through prayer, another thing that can help is music. Tom and I agree that this feels like a good time to introduce a number of new songs to Rio that may equip us to better express the joy of the Lord. With that goal in mind, listen to the song “House of the Lord” over the weekend (linked below) and then bring your loudest praise offering with you this Sunday!
“In your presence there is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11)
Your brother,
Ryan