As I write this “post” I am listening to the inspiring and beautiful carol, Angels from the Realms of Glory that climaxes with the words, Gloria in excelsis Deo! Though such songs are usually only sung during the Advent season, for those who know the Messiah as more than just a name, it is a reminder that not only was He fleshed out among us in the form of a baby in history, but that He lives in the now, birthed into the hearts of every “believer.” He is here!

He is here, He is here, the Messiah/It’s the fulness of time, He has come/ Heaven’s treasure, the brightest of jewels/ He is with us, the Savior, God’s Son!! Hallelujah, all glory to Jesus/Hallelujah, all praise to His name/Heaven’s light invaded sin’s darkness the night the Savior came!

As we look back on another year we do so with deep gratitude for the goodness and grace of our Savior which has been expressed in a myriad of ways, the least not being the encouragement and love we have received through many of you. May God return to you, many times over, the blessing you have been to us.

Though sadly, for some Americans, it is not the politically correct greeting to make, we do wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS, filled with all the wonder of what did take place when God was fleshed out among us. And though, due to the trials we may be going through it may not make human sense to do what the Psalmist admonishes—“Rejoice always…,” we can, in light of what God has done, is doing and will do in the days ahead as we anticipate what awaits us just over the horizon.

The bottom line is that Christmas, for us, is knowing that not only can we celebrate God’s plan of redemption but we can experience a peace that only He can provide. So, our true Christmas wish for you is that you will be comforted and encouraged and that the “joy of the Lord” will be your strength now and throughout the coming year.

Grace, peace and love…

Ron and Patricia