Soon after Jesus had resurrected, we find a beautiful passage found in John chapter 20 that is a wonderful example of how much God loves us and wants to encourage us. The friends and family of Christ were gathered together after his horrific crucifixion and were still grieving over his death when all of a sudden, he appears in their midst! Even though they remembered how he had promised to return I’m sure they were still awestruck.

Arise, shine, for your light has come, *

and the glory of the Lord has dawned upon you.

For behold, darkness covers the land; *

deep gloom enshrouds the peoples.

But over you the Lord will rise, *

and his glory will appear upon you.

Nations will stream to your light, *

and kings to the brightness of your dawning.

Winners of Valley Service Organization's annual lighting and decoration contests are Patrick and Stephanie Patterson, whose home at 234 Condit Court, across from the number two tee at the Saratoga Hot Springs golf course, lights up the residential area in fantastic fashion and must be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

Photos by Liz Wood