Several years ago, I wrote my December newsletter to all of you and came to this segment sharing words as powerful tools for American freedom. At that time, I was (literally) inspired to see American freedom as directly tied to our personal freedom. And, of course, our personal freedom is directly connected to the blessings bestowed on us by our Creator. Hence the following words have been part of my Christmas message each year since. Merry Christmas and God bless you.
“Christmas – A Time for Gifts!”
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Now that’s a gift. Ties are nice. Power tools are very cool. Jewelry may be a woman’s best friend. A nice bottle of wine – nice. Tickets to the State Theatre – always appreciated.
Eternal life – now that’s a gift! Joy to the World – indeed! Joy to you and me. How would you even wrap a gift this great? Why in swaddling clothes, of course!
Please allow us to serve you and those you love.
Thank you,
Gene
P.S. My favorite book, play, and movie of all time is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. I’ve lost track of the number of times I’ve read the book, seen the show on stage, or watched one of the many movie versions (while the Muppets made a good enough run at it, the 1984 production with George C. Scott as Scrooge is – in my humble opinion – the very best).
Who can read, see, or hear of this story of pure redemption and not be deeply touched? All these years and the story’s end still brings my heart to my throat – and I thank God that it does.
We pray your heart will be full this Christmas and every day in the New Year.