“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations...” Matthew 28:19-20

Christmas in Africa & the Middle East

http://www.icfi.com/~/media/Images/ICFi/Regions/Global_Map_Africa.ashx

Rejoice in the Light ~

HE Has Come and is Coming Again!

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” Luke 2:8-11

They could be trusted to carry the good news of great joy for all the people

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. Luke 2:16-18

Christmas in Bethlehem, Israel

Kenyan style Christmas dinner

Driving to town Christmas Day to greet family & friends

Christmas dinner with soda in glass bottles as a treat!

Rebekah shopping for Christmas in the village suburb of Giza, Egypt

EGYPT - Coptic Priest

Lucy and her Coptic family celebrating Christmas in Egypt

~ Hanukkah ~ a Feast of Dedication

and a joyful Festival of Lights

Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon’s Colonnade.

The Jews gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” John 10:22-24

The message of Hanukkah for us today

1. They decided no compromise with sin anymore 2. Even though they were the minority they were going to stand strong for God 3. They went against the spirit of the times 4. They learned how to become warriors of faith 5. They operated in the supernatural strength of

God 6. They carried the Light of God for all

generations to come

How about you?