"The people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned.” (Matthew 4:16 English Standard Version)
I am struck by a few thoughts this Christmas. For one, it is my thirtieth Christmas as pastor of a great church, a church that constantly seeks ways to reach out with love into the darkness around us. Cathy and I are frequently and constantly recipients of that love and our lives are marked with hope and joy because of it.
Second, it is my 65th Christmas on this earth and I can truly say that each one gets richer and sweeter. It is God’s kindness and mercy that fill me these days. I am forever grateful that He loved me, called me and offered me a place in His family. He blessed me abundantly when He gave me opportunity to serve Him by serving others. Hallelujah!
Third, I am blessed by a wonderful family. Our parents, our children (and their spouses) and our grandchildren are all sources of deep encouragement to Cathy and me.
Fourth, I have been blessed beyond words to walk at the side of a wife who is a picture of faithfulness and kindness to me. Cathy’s depth in her walk with Christ is a source of encouragement, hope and wisdom that I can never adequately describe.
Finally, I am blessed by an abundance of friends, co-workers, and extended family members who lift me up when I am overwhelmed and boot me in the seat of the pants when I need it, which is often!
To one and all, Merry Christmas and the richest of blessings this holiday season!
