Pray with me

I had planned to host a lessons and carols service in my hostel. (Nine readings from the Bible intermixed with nine Christmas songs)
The establishment was not going to give me permission, however late yesterday, with a sudden change of heart, my application was approved! Pray for the function today that hearts would be open to hear the Word and experience the joy that the hope of Emmanuel brings.

I have been reading through Ezra, which has been chronicling recent events here. Building the temple of God with permission from pagan kings, opposition to the work, letters back and forth to pagan authorities, governors, kings- and today in my daily reading the temple was finished and they all celebrated their holiday with joy and the permission of the pagan king. Perfect timing for our Christmas celebration today.

“And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy, for the Lord had made them joyful and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria to them, so that he aided them in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.”
‭‭Ezra‬ ‭6‬:‭22‬ ‭

Merry Christmas, everyone!‬‬