Text Box: Our world has known so little peace. Look at what has happened this past year alone. From the south Asian tsunami to the destruction of New Orleans, from the worst wildfire season in memory to the latest batch of Midwestern tornadoes (in November, no less!), and as if these things were not enough we must face the reality of homelessness, child abuse, children on drugs, and wives seeking safety in shelters from their husbands who promised to protect and cherish them. Add to the list, medical bills, school bills, cost of living increases, and we realize that even our own church (a place where we should be able to go to find rest and healing after a hard week) is feeling the Text Box: strain of living in the new millennium. Life in general, is just not peaceful anymore, is it? I was thinking about the promises of peace and joy in the Bible and I came across something Isaiah said when his nation was threatened with destruction. Imagine, when the rumblings of war and discouragement were on the horizon, Isaiah was trying to sell his people the idea of a soon coming Prince of Peace. (Aren’t we trying to do the same thing today?). Yet, for all the promises, there has been so little peace—even among believers, perhaps especially among believers. Until finally, on that first Text Box: Christmas, peace came. It's Christmas, again. You see, the peace that came that first Christmas was really the gift of God in human form. Peace on earth means exactly what is says—God with us. And peace prompts togetherness. You play a vital role in the peace and joy of the Lake City Church family. No one else can take your place. If you're not here, there's someone irreplaceable who is missing. It's Christmas, again. A time for families to get together to share the happiness and joy that naturally comes with the season. This holiday season my family and I wish you and your family all the peace and joy that Text Box: Peace & Joy This Holiday Season