THE DESOLATE WINTER OF OUR DISCONTENT

•    frosty imagery of bleak midwinter in carol
•    post-Christmas blues: financial, family frictions
•    Israel & Judah devastated by Assyrian / Babylonian overlords
•    desertion even worse than desolation: rejection, worthless
•    calloused hearts & spiritual blindness brought ruinous consequences

CLEARED UP

•    Jesus embodies God’s promised salvation
•    righteousness in behaviour, and justified in view of cruel treatment
•    faith in Jesus provides opportunity to become “clothed with Christ”

COMMITTED TO

•    repopulation of homeland: Israel’s children ‘marry’ Jerusalem
•    communion symbols of Christ’s commitment to His people
•    real security not found in Christmas toys but God’s promise to never leave us

CHERISHED

•    bride & groom specially adorned; splendid crown beautiful
•    God takes delight in & rejoices over His people

LAUNDRY LOVE: DRESSED FOR A FRESH START

•    unique ministry to the homeless helps them get clean laundry, accommodation