Christmas Message

 The celebration of Christmas by Christians around the world is usually marked by decorated homes, festive lighting along streets and byways, parades, Santa Claus, the traditional Christmas tree in homes, and the famous New York's huge Christmas tree in Times Square. It is the season for carolers, festive dinners, church services, shopping at malls and stores and don’t forget the exchanging of gifts. But is this what Christmas is all about? Regardless of the commercial side of the Christmas season, we cannot forget that, for us, as Christians, December 25th is the day that Christ came into our world.

 At the time of His birth, who could have thought, imagined or foreseen the impact on the peoples and nations of the world resulting from the birth of this infant? Although it had been foretold by a few Old Testament prophets, a "King" born in a stable? This time of the year, more than any other time, we recall the birth of the Baby Jesus in a stable as Mary and Joseph travel from Galilee to Bethlehem. We know that the Inn where they ended up was full, but the kindness of the Inn Keeper allowed them to spend the night in the stable. Mary gives birth and places her child in a manger. The baby is named Jesus. Suddenly, a brilliant star in the heavens leads shepherds and the Wise Men to the stable. Jesus, then and now, is the greatest gift in this entire world. Let us, every day, thank God for the gift of His Son.

So, enjoy the season. Thank God for your blessings. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His countenance shine upon you and give you peace. And let us pray for those less fortunate, but especially for those of our sons and daughters, wives and husbands, relatives and friends who serve our country in the Armed Forces and who now are in harm's way and allow us to celebrate this momentous occasion according to our believes.

Merry Christmas to all.