"JOY TO THE WORLD" an unexpected Classic...
Most of you know that I consider the song "Joy to the World" the greatest song ever written. It is definitely my favorite. This "Christmas Carol" was written in 1719 by an English Minister, Issac Watts. The irony, though this is one of the most celebrated songs celebrating the birth of Jesus and a Holiday staple for most, this song was not intended to be a Christmas carol. Infact, it wasn't even supposed to be a song! Rev. Watts had published a collection of poems based upon the Psalms. "Joy to the World" was an interpretation based on Psalm 98. And though we recognize and admire Rev. Watts as one of the most prolific and celebrated creators of hymns, he was considered a "black sheep" during his time. Some even considered his lyrics "heretical". But instead of giving into the prejudices of his peers his father challenged him to create something different. Basically, become a "change agent", and he did. No longer were the songs sung primarily deadpan and dull, he introduced the element of emotion, life, and joy in his lyrics. And the rest, as they say, is history.
God has an amazing way of taking what some may think is insignificant and changing the world. A young, shepherd boy, the youngest of many sons, becomes the greatest King in the history of Israel. (KIng David) An arrogant, religious, zealot determined to keep his Jewish faith pure, became the greatest mouthpiece to spread the Gospel of Christ. (Paul). A group of nasty, "unclean", stinky shepherds were the first to know and invited to visit the most sacred and purest baby ever born. And the list goes on and on and on. God has done and continues to do amazing things through the unexpected. So we should expect it.
A simple poem, by a Minister who was not the favorite of many, became the greatest song of all time!! So do not ever, never, think that God can't and won't use you! You may be the next "Game Changer"! You may be the next "unexpected Classic"... so expect it!
Sunday is week three of advent. We will light the "Joy" pink candle, also known as the Shepherd's candle. Following our time of Worship we will break bread together with our Potluck Lunch. This is such a great time of the year and special time in our Church. We miss those of you who we haven't seen in a while. Please plan to join us and participate. I believe you will be blessed and be glad you did. JOY TO THE WORLD THE LORD HAS COME!! IT IS TIME TO CELEBRATE! Remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie