"On earth peace, good will toward all men." (Luke 2:14)December brings a chilly gray looking sky. colors are muted, and cold weather seems here to stay. Winter solstice arrives toward the end of the month, with the official first day of winter. Even now, days are beginning to lengthen and we can gradually look forward to more day light.
Though one of the coldest months on our calendar, it is one of the warmest months in our hearts. For it is the month when Jesus was born. He came into the world poor, wrapped in swaddling clothes, His bed a manger. Joseph and Mary, His parents, were far from the comfort of their home the night of His birth, having journeyed to Bethlehem to be counted in a census. Turned away from the inn, they were sent to a stable. There, among common animals, He was born.
The world was changed for all time!
This is a story told many times, but never to grow old. It rings down through centeries, always new and inspiring. For Jesus came to bring peace and love to a weary world. His words and deeds are fresh in our hearts to this very day. The joy of His birth is echoed in the love we share with others.
Sometimes the message of His birth gets lost in commercial trappings of the holiday. It becomes a time of gifts and cards and parties. But we should always remember the real reason for Christmas.
Take time during the holiday festivities to stop and think of Jesus. When His Spirit of Peace becomes a part of our lives, each day will be Christmas, and each night will hold promise of joy in the morning.
So find a quiet corner and say a little prayer, a prayer of love and brotherhood for all men.
Usher the old year out by letting your faith shine like a beacon to herald the new year.
Decide right now things are going to be better for you and for your loved ones and that, with God's help, you will work hard to make it your best year ever!
Make Jesus the reason for the season.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.
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