MERRY CHRISTMAS!
"And the Angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'"
(Lk 2:10-11 ESV)

Imagine the shock of the shepherds. Just another "ho-hum" night. Suddenly, the dark sky became brilliant. Fear was natural, but the startled response was soon turning to joy. All of humanity needs some good news, some really Good News. They heard that their neighborhood had just been invaded by the long-expected Savior who is Messiah and Lord. Suddenly their world was changed.

And it is still changing! Sarah and I thank the Lord for His love and the opportunity to share that love and the encouragement of His Word with leaders and believers both here and overseas this year.

Thank you for your prayers and partnership in telling the Good News to people in far-away places. Because of His work through YOU, I have been privileged to serve Jesus in Rwanda, DR Congo, Uganda, Ireland, and Costa Rica in 2016. Trust me, God is doing amazing things through the work of ELI.

Now I look to 2017 and my first trip back to Rwanda in late January. I pray that the Holy Spirit will go before us and provide each step of the way. Your prayers are needed and appreciated.

Merry Christmas and may God bless you richly as you celebrate Jesus with your family and friends!

With Christmas Joy, Joel & Sarah McCall