Merry Christmas, 2023

 Merry Christmas

"And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men." Luke 2:1-14

Dear children of God,

On this special Christmas morning, as we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, I want to invite you to reflect on the profound significance of this day. Christmas is not merely a time for exchanging gifts and indulging in festive cheer; it is a commemoration of God's greatest gift to humanity – the gift of hope.

In a world often shrouded in darkness and uncertainty, the birth of Jesus brought forth a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward salvation and eternal life. Through his humble arrival in a manger, God demonstrated his unwavering love for humankind, descending from his heavenly throne to walk among us, sharing in our joys and sorrows, our triumphs and struggles.

Jesus' life was a testament to the power of hope, a life dedicated to teaching, healing, and offering solace to those in need. He challenged the prevailing norms, spoke truth to power, and embodied compassion and forgiveness. His message resonated with the downtrodden, offering them a glimmer of hope amidst their despair.

The culmination of Jesus' earthly journey, his ultimate sacrifice on the cross, stands as the ultimate symbol of hope. Through his death and resurrection, he conquered sin and death, opening the gates of heaven to those who believe in his redemptive power. His sacrifice offered a promise of eternal life, a hope that transcends the limitations of this earthly existence.

As we celebrate Christmas this year, let us not forget the true essence of this season – the gift of hope. Let us embrace the hope that Jesus brought into the world, a hope that empowers us to face life's challenges with courage and resilience.

Let us extend this hope to others, sharing it with those who may feel lost in darkness or overwhelmed by despair. Let us be beacons of light, reflecting the love and compassion that Jesus exemplified.

Remember, dear friends, that hope is not merely wishful thinking; it is an active force, a driving motivation that compels us to strive for a better future, a future aligned with God's divine plan for our lives.

May the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with joy, peace, and the unwavering hope that only Jesus Christ can provide.

Merry Christmas!