Joy shows up again and again in the Christmas story, but it is not a fragile feeling that comes and goes with our circumstances. The joy God gives is a steady confidence and a quiet contentment that can hold the heart even when life feels uncertain. Joy does not erase the hard parts of life. We still face moments of fear. We still wait for prayers to be answered. We still walk through seasons when we wonder what God is doing and why. Yet in every scene of the Christmas story, God brings His joy close to people who feel the same things we feel. This series invites you to discover how the joy Jesus brings can reach you in the middle of your real life and give strength for whatever you are facing. Whether you feel forgotten, discouraged, anxious, or simply in need of renewed hope, the Christmas story offers a joy that was meant for you.
11/30 Joy When You Feel Forgotten
The Christmas story begins with two people who knew what it felt like to pray for years and wonder if God was still listening. Many of us carry that same feeling into the season. Zechariah and Elizabeth remind us that God has not forgotten us. He sees the quiet places of our lives, hears the prayers we whisper, and brings joy right where we thought hope was gone. And as we share Communion together, we will remember the One who came near, who knows our needs, and who invites us to trust His faithful love. (Luke 1:5-25)
12/7 Joy When You Need Encouragement
Instead of our usual worship through singing, we will begin the morning with our Kids Christmas Program, followed by the message. We will look at a moment in the Christmas story filled with encouragement. When Mary arrived at Elizabeth’s home, something beautiful happened. Joy rose in both of them at the sound of a simple greeting. If you have ever felt weighed down, discouraged, or unsure where to turn, this story will speak to your heart. God uses the people around us to lift our spirits, remind us of His faithfulness, and help joy grow again within us. After the service, everyone is invited to stay for a church potluck, followed by our members budget and ballot business meeting. (Luke 1:39-56)
12/14 Joy Stronger Than Fear
The shepherds were doing what they always did, simply trying to make it through another night, when fear suddenly filled their hearts. Many of us know that feeling, especially during the holidays when worries can feel heavier than usual. Into that fear came a message of good news and great joy. The joy Jesus brings is strong enough to steady anxious hearts, quiet our fears, and give us strength for whatever we may be facing. And just like the shepherds, we are invited to embrace the good news, follow the direction God gives, and have the boldness to share Christ with anyone who will listen. (Luke 2:1-20)
Saturday 12/20 Iron Range Renewal Christmas
Rockwell Church is hosting a special community Christmas event from 6 to 8 pm. The evening will feature musicians from across the Iron Range along with a live presentation of the Christmas story, presented with the help of Youth for Christ students. It will be a meaningful night of music, Scripture, and celebration for the whole community.
12/21 Joy Worth Pursuing
The wise men began a long journey with only a star to guide them and a longing to find the One God had promised. Their story shows that joy is not something we simply wait to feel but something worth pursuing with our whole heart. They followed the light because they believed true joy would be found in the Savior Himself. If you have reached the end of a year feeling uncertain or in need of direction, you will find yourself in their story. God still leads those who seek Him. He gives light for the next step and joy for the journey when we draw near to Jesus. (Matthew 2:1-12)
12/24 The Night Joy Entered the World
4:30 to 5:15 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service
On Christmas Eve we gather for a time to remember, celebrate, and worship. We look back to the night everything changed, when the eternal Word became flesh and the true Light stepped into our darkness. This is the moment joy entered the world in a way every one of us can experience for ourselves. If your heart is longing for hope, for peace, or simply for the reassurance that God is close, this service invites you to come to the One who brings life and joy to all who receive Him. (John 1:1-14)
Come Experience the Joy of Christmas
We would love for you, your family, and your friends to join us throughout this Christmas season. Whether you are searching for hope, needing encouragement, or simply wanting to experience the joy of Christ in a deeper way, there is a place for you here. Come discover the joy that God offers and celebrate the good news that He is near.
93 Midway Dr., Virginia, MN (Just north of the new Hwy 53 roundabout)
Rockwell Church 