Joy Has Come

Published on November 29, 2008 by Pastor Jeff Zabel

This is the title of our Christmas concert this year and I believe an appropriate epitome of where we’re at as a church.  Joy continues to linger as the present and future sing of new ministry and new growth.  Praise God!

And speaking of singing, we can’t contain our excitement in Music and Arts when we’ve seen a commitment of more than 60 people to sing in our Christmas concert.   From zero to 60 in three months!  That’s something to celebrate!

Come the new year, our choir will begin in earnest under the leadership of an additional full-time Music Pastor (Choir and Orchestra Director). We’re beside ourselves giddy to announce that Bruce Eldridge will be joining our staff in this capacity!  Bruce served at the First Baptist Church of Lakewood as a music intern from 1973-1978, then as Minister of Music from 1978-1990.  He was a beloved pastor and left an indelible mark of excellence and God-honoring worship through music.  The foundations that were laid by Bruce and his predecessors, Johnny Hallet and Dick Anthony, have inspired and reminded us of the unique fingerprint God has given this church in musical ministry.  We believe a commitment to excellence in choral and orchestral music is a must for us to move forward with integrity, heeding God’s call for Lakewood’s future, and rounding out a well-balanced music and arts ministry.  Bruce is excited about being a part of this new season and using his gifts and talents to lead us to new horizons.  He’ll be starting with us January 1st.

And just so you know, we’re more committed than ever in providing fresh, energetic, contemporary worship through song.  We’re beginning to build a solid worship team rotation and look forward to shaping and honing the gifts God has entrusted to us.  The next worship team audition will be held in February 2009, so stay tuned for more details.
In this Christmas season, we’re reminded that God became flesh.  The Son of God, Jesus the Christ, was born to deliver us from our sins.  Hebrews 12 tells us Jesus was filled with joy for his purpose, even in the face of an excruciating death on the cross.  Jesus was filled with joy because he knew he would be bridging the gap between God and man, and that an eternal relationship with his beloved children would be made available in his death and resurrection.  As we look to the manger, we remember the cross.  And we’re filled with wonder and joy at God’s provision.
Joyously His,

Pastor Jeff

P.S. In case you haven’t heard, Joy Has Come {Christmas at Lakewood} is on December 21st at 4pm and 7pm.  The concert is free and tickets can be picked up Sunday in the main lobby and on weekdays in the church office.