Rejoice, Give Thanks and Sing

Last night, Jen and I watched a choral concert on television by the choirs of St. Olaf College. Actually, I watched it, while Jen slept. It was pretty incredible and worshipful as I sat on that couch to hear the name of Jesus proclaimed many times throughout the concert. This morning, I got to thinking. There are so many reasons to rejoice, give thanks and sing.

While there are many reasons to rejoice, without this one, the rest are meaningless in my mind. I love Chris Tomlin's song Emmanuel.

Emmanuel, Emmanuel
God incarnate, here to dwell
Emmanuel, Emmanuel
PRAISE HIS NAME EMMANUEL

Then, I think about the semester that we just had and know that there are so many reasons to give thanks.

• His plans are bigger than mine.
• His strength and help as we walk by faith and trust Him for great things.
  
• Moving away from Siena and focusing fully at UAlbany.
• Getting in contact with many coaches and speaking in front of 6 teams, inviting them to be a part of Athletes in Action at UA.
• Many conversations that Jen had with female athletes, with opportunities to share the Gospel
• Our staff team growing together and establishing deeper relationships
• Athletes in Action small group growing from 4 to 12 athletes in one week at the end of the semester

Regardless of whether we see success or failure on campus, we can sing. Jesus' birth, death and resurrection gives us hope no matter what we face today. I love the words that Chris Tomlin wrote...

I can sing in the troubled times
Sing when I win
I can sing when I lose my step
And fall down again
I can sing 'cause You pick me up
Sing 'cause You're there
I can sing 'cause You hear me, Lord
When I call to You in prayer
I can sing with my last breath
Sing for I know
That I'll sing with the angels
And the saints around the throne

Merry Christmas from our home to yours! Please know that we are so thankful for you and your commitment to stand with us, while we watch Jesus change lives on campuses here and throughout the world!