Merry Christmas

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” With these words, the Prophet Isaiah foretold of a birth that changed the world, a birth we still celebrate every year at Christmas.

As we prepare to mark the occasion of another Christmas, let us all take a moment to pause and reflect on the message that began in a little stable on a cold winters’ night in a little town on the other side of the world. A message of hope and redemption that is available to all. Just as the star pointed the way to that little corner of the world, may the spirit that came into the world that first Christmas, guide our paths throughout the year.

Even as we observe this time of joy, let us never forget those who are less fortunate, and pray for God’s blessings and healing upon them. However, let us not only pray for them, but also pray for direction in our own lives, so we can be a blessing to those in our communities who are hurting. The world would be a better place if each of us would reach out to someone, not only at Christmas, but also throughout the year.

As children, we anticipate every second leading up to Christmas, and as adults, we reminisce about Christmas past, trying to recall just what it was like to be a child on Christmas morning. My prayer is that we can all find that childlike joy again. May we just let go of insignificant baggage in our lives and focus on the importance of our families and friends.

From my family to yours, I personally want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and thank you for the blessing you are to our lives. Please join with me in celebrating the day that Luke wrote about, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” In addition, the angels proclaimed; “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.”