So, we have reached the last issue of the year. This year, however, also marks the end of the decade ... the end of the century ... even the end of the millennium. I have heard all of the rhetoric that the millennium actually begins at Jan. 1, 2001, due to the lack of a year 0 a.d., but the truth is that, for people, the change from 1999 to 2000 is much more important. Yet, there are still many prophecies that must be fulfilled before our Lord can return. We must continue to strive to be ready, having on the whole armor of God, and our will lost in His.

We will be greeting the New Year in prayer and praise. We will start around 9:30 p.m. We hope to enjoy fellowship with all who can join us. When we walk with Jesus, we are prepared for everything.

We have been invited to visit a church in Southbridge, MA on Dec. 24. Their pastor, Bro. Reginald Devone, Sr. has asked Pastor McNabb to preach, and for us to also bring our music ministry. God grant us to be a blessing to them.

The 2000 Strangers and Pilgrims calendars are finally completed, and the advance orders have been filled. Bro. Boris Odilbekov has once again provided the illustration. This year we have a scene of Abraham leaving his home by faith in obedience to God. Get yours while supplies last.

This month’s newsletter also contains an article by Bro. Pari Hoxha about the pagan origins of some of the holiday traditions. It is very important that we know the truth about Christmas. When, in the time of the prophet Amos, the Jews had substituted the feasts ordained by God with pagan ones, He was very angry. God said, "I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. Take thou away from me the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy viols." (Amos 5:21-23)

They had moved the Feast of Tabernacles one month later, and God said that He would neither accept their sacrifices TO HIM, or listen to their songs and music. Incidentally, this was the same Feast during which Jesus was born. We, as Christians, have moved it not one month ... but two. I don’t believe that God is happier about it this time around.

I recently spoke to Sis. Charlene Keith of Louisville, KY. Her husband Elmer is in poor health, and our thoughts and prayers are with these precious saints. May he get well speedily.

Have a happy and safe New Year and God bless you greatly the year through.

David M. McNabb

Editor & Bible Guy