Title: Finding Joy Unspeakable in the Heart of Winter

Introduction:

January always struck me as the most challenging month – cold, bleak, and a sharp contrast to the festive December. But this year, despite recovering from a foot fracture and a bout of illness, I find myself overflowing with optimism and excitement. I believe it's because I've been intentional in seeking joy from the Lord, and I sense an exciting season ahead for us at Church in the City.

Embracing Joy in Every Season:

Whether you're feeling uplifted like me this year or a bit down like I was last year, I hope our series "Joy Unspeakable" uplifts you. It's all about finding joy through the Holy Spirit, regardless of our circumstances.

The Holy Spirit in Our Church Life:

I've realized how essential the Holy Spirit's role is in every aspect of our church. From our worship team to our greeters, tech team, and even in my preaching, the presence of the Holy Spirit is what makes our efforts meaningful and purposeful.

Humility:

The Heart of Christian Living: I've been reflecting on humility as a key Christian virtue. It's more than modesty; it involves recognizing our limitations and submitting to God. I see it in the lives of people around me, like my wife, Liana, who has achieved so much professionally yet remains humble and grounded.

Understanding 'Fearing the Lord':

Fearing the Lord is about deep reverence and respect. It's not about being scared; it's about recognizing God's sovereignty and holiness, leading us to wisdom, obedience, trust, and turning away from sin.

The Enduring Joy of Faith:

I've been contemplating the difference between the fleeting joys of the world and the lasting joy found in our faith. Our journey through Philippians has been enlightening, especially the first chapter's focus on gratitude and hope.

Following Christ’s Example of Humility:

Philippians 2:1-11 has been particularly impactful for me. It speaks to Jesus's humility and selflessness as our ultimate model. Understanding His sacrifice and exaltation gives profound meaning to our own paths of humility.

Conclusion:

A Personal Invitation to Joy and Faith: I invite you to join me in embracing the joy of the Lord and committing to a life of faith. As we partake in communion, let's reflect on Jesus's sacrifice and renew our commitment to Him.

Final Reflections:

As we step into 2024, let's focus on joy, humility, and reverence for God. I'm excited to walk this journey with you, filled with the unspeakable

joy of the Lord. Let's celebrate this new year with hearts aligned with His love and purpose, remembering the incredible gift of salvation and the endless joy He offers us. Let's make 2024 a year of deep spiritual growth and joyous living, as we walk in His ways and spread His love.

Watch the Full Message Below:

Philippians 2:1-11

Imitating Christ’s Humility

1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,

2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,

4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.

8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,

10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.