Christmas Greetings 2008

I often try to picture what the very first Christmas would have looked like. And can I tell you; the night that Jesus arrived in Bethlehem was no peaceful, silent night! In fact, the town of Bethlehem was facing a crisis of their own. In a city overrun with people, crowded streets, new rulers, and uncertain futures…a baby was born. And He looked nothing like a King. It was majesty in the midst of the everyday.

Christmas is a fantastic time of year, and yet this season can become overwhelming at times. The good news is that 2000 years ago, our God showed us His love by bringing peace in the midst of chaos.

Friends, as tensions and financial pressures begin to rise around the globe, lets not forget that the birth of Christ came in the midst of chaos, but left us with a promise of hope for the future.

In a profound moment before He departed from this world Christ said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I now give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)

The peace of Christmas is not merely about the absence of conflict and pressures. Jesus was not born into a peaceful situation, and yet He IS peace. No matter what circumstances you face today, may you find hope and rest in the midst of uncertainty, and hold fast to the knowledge that Jesus himself left His peace with you.

I wish each and every one of you peace and joy this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas

Pastor Brian