Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/823023
2 65/2083&84L-2 Foreword The message of Christmas is one of deep and abiding joy! It is a message filled with the assurance that no matter how difficult the journey may seem; no matter how hopeless the situation may feel; no matter how long and dark the night may be, joy will eventually come. That is the promise of God: Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b) We live in a world where short-term promises and quick fixes are often chosen over lasting solutions. It seems that we need to find ways to invest ourselves in experiences and people who will outlive us, and, in that way, make a difference for generations yet to come. There is a vast difference between a temporary thrill-ride and enduring joy. Jesus came to provide us with a deep and lasting joy; a joy that could truly fill the void in our lives, a void that we often attempt to satisfy with temporal things. The angel said to some unsuspecting shepherds going about their nightly duties on a Judean hillside: Do not be afraid, for I bring you news of great joy! (Luke 2:10) There was nothing short- term about this message. Jesus had been born and the world would never be the same again. And like the shepherds, we have become recipients to this wonderful news of great joy! So what do we do with this news? My father used to say to me that "…with privilege comes responsibility." Jesus made a very similar statement: To whom much is given, much will be required. (Luke 12:48b) We who have been the recipients of this great news have the privilege and responsibility to share it. To celebrate it. To sing it. That is the reason for this Christmas musical. It is conceived as a vehicle to help us share, celebrate, and sing the joyous Christmas message! I pray that you and all who hear you sing this Christmas work will experience anew the joy of the compelling story of God becoming human and living with us in a way that changed our world forever! Though our world is dark, Your light overcomes the darkness. Though we have wandered, Your love is steadfast. Though we lose our way, You have made a way. Though our fear is great, Your joy is greater. Joy to the world! The Lord is come! —Lloyd Larson For Preview Only