Last Thanksgiving, I was in Kenya visiting with missionaries and churches. This year I was able to spend time with my family here in Springfield. It was a blessing to have my dad with us who will soon be 94 years old in January. I hope you have seen the documentary of him. If not, click on this link: Richard Konnerup Documentary

Check out the next podcast by clicking on this link: Walk-Through Tour of Buildings. It is about the current state of the new building project. They are still saying the main building will be done in January. We shall see. Everything is looking good!

Did you receive this year’s Christmas card from the Mission Office yet? We put two different pictures on it this year – one on each side. One side is more of a fun picture that Mike Esquibel did a great job putting together. The other side is a more formal one. Can you name each one in the picture?

In Matthew chapters 1 & 2 there are four names given to the child born in Bethlehem. Each one gives us insight into why He is the focus of the nativity and why He is the reason for Christmas season.

Matthew 1:21 – He is called Jesus.

Jesus gives salvation to His people. He saves them from their sins. The name Jesus is the sweetest name on earth.   

Matthew 1:23 – He is called Emmanuel.

At Christmas when you think of the Child, think of Him as Emmanuel – God with us. He is God with us to help us in our struggles of life.

Matthew 2:2 – He is called King.

The wise men brought gifts for a king: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. He will come again as the King, and I believe He will come soon. 

Matthew 2:4 – He is called Christ.

He is the One who gives life – everlasting. 

I pray you will have a wonderful Christmas! May the Lord give you much fruit during this season as the Good News of Jesus’ birth is shared all around the world. Thank you for surrendering to the Lord’s call to be the messenger of that wonderful, life-changing story. You are the light in the dark place. Shine bright! 

Your friend,

Jon Konnerup