This Christmas letter is written specifically to all who, for whatever reasons, have been pushed to the periphery of life; to those who deeply desire their lives to be better - filled with more joy; to those who long for the safety and happiness of loved ones; and to those who wish to love and be loved by others.
In the stark reality of our world, the words of Psalm 96 capture our hope: The Presence of The Lord comes, God comes to rule the earth. For this reason we can "Proclaim to the nations: 'God is King.'" This is a powerful word to all the nations of our world.
With the assurance of His coming, we also have the absolute certainty of His promises:
Perhaps our Christmas could be an expression of our daily prayer that God might come to rule the earth, that God's will be done on earth just as it is in heaven, and that our lives reflect the Kingdom of God now because we act in faithful obedience as if we were already in heaven.
In the Presence of this Divine Shepherd, Emmanuel, God with us, we "shall not want." This is the one who "restores and renews our soul." In the Presence of this One we do not fear, no matter how dark the valley. The promises and blessings are given with such love - it is as if our "cup overflows" with thanksgiving.
St. Paul pointed out, "The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all." (Phil. 4:5,6). The Psalmist also sings, "Cry out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and Holy One." (Psalm 12:6).
These Christmas Holy days will be celebrated in many ways: some families will be together; some individuals will be alone; and some hope to connect with loved ones across long distances. There is a yearning within each of us to be connected. This internal longing reflects the same desire God has toward us - to be connected. While the days approaching Christmas are properly moments set aside to reflect on our anticipation and waiting, it is also a time when God waits for us. God waits for us to change our hurtful habits. God waits for us to offer sincere acts of contrition. God waits for us to recognize the hunger we have for the Divine, for the Words of Life, for The Word made Flesh.
Our prayer for you is that this Christmas season offer a "time out" from the busyness of our personal routines so the Mystery of God's Spirit may fill us with newfound wisdom, compassion, generosity, forgiveness and gentleness. We truly seek the kingship of God over every decision of our lives and to walk in the way of holiness.
The Prince of Peace is among us! "In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace (Luke 1:78,79)."
"You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before The Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins." Luke 1:76
Jesus Christ is born. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God. Come! Let us adore him.
Merry Christmas,
Paul and Janet Leeland