2024 Winter Issue 2 Volume 33 – Focus Evangelistic Ministries, Inc.

Volume 33 Issue 3

A publication of Focus Evangelistic Ministries, Inc

Winter 2024/25

THE COMMUNICATOR

Focus Evangelistic Ministries, Inc. PO Box 498 Danielsville, GA 30633

Joy and Sorrow Intermingled

Merry Christmas! There is so much to be grateful for during this special time of year. The hope and joy that resounds through the season of Christmas comes from the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ(and through Him, eternal life)! But life wasn’t all sunshine and gummy bears for incarnate God.

Five hundred years before he walked the earth, Isaiah 53:3 foretold that Jesus would be a “man of sorrows.” I’ve often wondered why. Have you ever gone out of your way to help someone, only to be treated like the enemy? As much as it hurts to be hated, being misunderstood might be even worse. Jesus came down to the filth and grime of humanity not only to live among us, but to die a torturous death at our hands as well. His mission was to make a way for us to be united with God, but even Israel’s spiritual leaders hated His guts! Jesus referred to Jerusalem – the capital city, home of the temple and center of Jewish worship – as “thou that killest the prophets” (Matt 23:37). But He didn’t abandon the mission. Even the world’s hatred of Him couldn’t alter his resolve. Why? Hebrews12:2 tells us that though He despised the shame of the cross, He endured it “for the joy that was set before him.”

This being our first Christmas without Dad, I’m aware of how difficult it is to acknowledge sorrow in a season trademarked by joy. Pain is inevitable down here on Earth. But because of Jesus we have the assurance of peace and joy that He brings when we put our faith in Him alone to save us. He shows us that while sorrow may last for a time, a shout of joy will greet the morning! And in the light of Heaven, that joy will never be mingled with sorrow again.

BIG MINISTRY UPDATES

A major goal of mine has been to present our content in new mediums to reach more people, and we’ve made sizable strides in this effort. Whether you prefer reading, listening, or watching, we have good news for you!

Our new website, femionline.com, is open for public use! Not only does it have helpful links to our various platforms, our donation page, and ministry info, but it also houses a blog section. With the help of our website specialist, David Bauer, we’ve converted all articles into a mobile friendly format. They’re also searchable, so you can use keywords to find something specific. More blog posts will be coming soon, and they’re great for sharing with others!

The Focus Youtube channel is where you will find video versions of Focus on the Bible episodes. It’s also home to Freddie Coile’s catalogue of original video content. I’ve been hard at work creating new videos, and we’re prepared to keep ‘em coming. In fact, videos are already uploaded and scheduled all the way into the New Year, so make sure you’re subscribed!

Grace Farm camp events have been going well. Camp remains a spectacularly effective way to help people quiet the everyday noise of life and focus on what God is trying to teach them. We’ll be hosting our annual Winter Retreat for teens on December 27-29th, so registration is open! Visit gracefarmonline.com.

New Gospel Tracts were something Dad really wanted to make, so Eden has been hard at work on them. They carry the same message as our old ones, but with a more modern look to make them more visually appealing to potential readers.

Ministry Trips are being planned and booked! If you would like to invite me to speak at a church, camp, or other event, you can connect with us here. I trust God to provide, so there is no speaker fee.