2 Timothy 1:1-12, 4:2-7

Pastor Emeritus Earl Palmer preaches on Acts 14.

Pastor Emeritus Earl Palmer preaches on Acts 14.

“Peace on earth” is a theme frequently expressed during the Christmas season—even on completely secular greeting cards and holiday displays. Joseph’s eventual reconciliation with his brothers exemplifies the kind of peace that many families lack and long for.

“Peace on earth” is a theme frequently expressed during the Christmas season—even on completely secular greeting cards and holiday displays. Joseph’s eventual reconciliation with his brothers exemplifies the kind of peace that many families lack and long for.

“Peace on earth” is a theme frequently expressed during the Christmas season—even on completely secular greeting cards and holiday displays. Joseph’s eventual reconciliation with his brothers exemplifies the kind of peace that many families lack and long for.

Advent is a season of intentional waiting, and we know when it will end. At other times in our lives, we wait for relief or resolution with no idea how long the trials will last. This is the kind of indefinite waiting that Joseph endured in Egypt.

Advent is a season of intentional waiting, and we know when it will end. At other times in our lives, we wait for relief or resolution with no idea how long the trials will last. This is the kind of indefinite waiting that Joseph endured in Egypt.

Advent is a season of intentional waiting, and we know when it will end. At other times in our lives, we wait for relief or resolution with no idea how long the trials will last. This is the kind of indefinite waiting that Joseph endured in Egypt.

Tragedies are especially hard to endure during the Christmas season because they contrast so harshly with what should be a time of joy. Joseph’s calamities continued to multiply, yet through them all God was present and quietly at work.