Merry Christmas, Everybody!

Sometimes, I like to debate things in my head and get worked up over whether the way Americans celebrate Christmas is really all that Christian. But you know what? It's still a chance to spend time with family, and to experience the joy of generous love, kindness, and reconciliation. If you are able to enjoy those things this Christmas, God bless you. May your gratitude multiply your joy. If not, God bless you, too. Jesus sought us while we were still strangers. May God be present with you even now.

From one of my favorite hymns:

Who would think that what was needed
To transform and save the earth
Might not be a plan or army
Proud in purpose, proved in worth?
Who would think despite derision,
That a child would lead the way?
God surprises Earth with heaven,
coming here on Christmas day.

May you be surprised and blessed this Christmas season. Amen.