Christmas Greetings from Converge MidAtlantic

A Gift of Hope that Lights Up Our Lives
Recently I was reading sections from the Book of Isaiah. I love some of Isaiah’s prophetic words telling of a day when God will reign, declaring the good news of a Deliverer, proclaiming the day when a virgin will bring forth a Son who will establish the throne of David with power and might. What I find interesting about these messages from Isaiah, is that to the first hearers and readers they come in the midst of political, spiritual and economic despair. Israel’s greatness had diminished. The enemies of the land were all around. Hope was all but gone.

What I find encouraging for us today, is that this is how God works. And this is what this Christmas season announces to me. God is all about bringing light in the midst of darkness. He brings great hope in the midst of despair. When things can’t seem to get much worse, God introduces the promise of a Deliverer for His people. God is the author of Surprise, more so than any other surprise giver. He is a God of hope; a hope that literally lights up our lives.

This Advent Season, Sandi and I are praying that God will bring you the gift of Hope. We’re asking Him to enter into the cracks and crevices of despair you may be feeling, and bring a surprise of grace, of love, yes of hope. We’re praying that Christmas would be very personal for each of you; a personal renewal of your heart, of your passion for God, of confidence that God can overcome the greatest challenges in your life and ministry. I know that this is what Christmas can do and be!

“For to us a Child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this”
Isa 9: 6-7.

May the God of Israel give you and yours a special gift of hope this Advent Season. We love you and thank God for each of you.

Warmly in Jesus,

Dan and Sandi Peterson,
Converge MidAtlantic