By Robert Anderson, BCM/D President and Pastor of Colonial Baptist Church, Randallstown, Md.
Seasons Greetings! As your new BCM/D president, it will be my high honor to share some thoughts with you monthly in BaptistLIFE, and I hope they will be a source of encouragement to all. Christmas is my favorite holiday with all of its wonderful music, sumptuous food and bright colors. And like everyone else I enjoy the giving and receiving of gifts, but in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, let us not forget the greatest significance of it all, namely, the glorious coming of the Lord Jesus to die for our sins that we might have a way back to the Father. In fact, Matthew stated succinctly, “She (Mary) will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21).
One of my favorite gospel preachers, Dr. Robert G. Lee, tells the story of a famous songwriter who loved the Lord deeply. He wrote a song that had a beautiful romantic tune and a great gospel message, and he was offered a lot of money if he would substitute the word ‘love’ for ‘Jesus’. The composer strongly replied, “If you leave out Jesus, you have left out everything.” This Christmas, let’s make sure we do not substitute or leave out JESUS, because it is all about Him! In fact, it is a wonderful time to share this good news with others that the Savior has come to redeem us from sin and condemnation.
I truly covet your prayers as I endeavor to represent Maryland/Delaware Southern Baptists with honor, integrity and love. If I can be of any help to you just let me know. Have a wonderful holiday season, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.