LUKE 1 : 46

I earnestly pray that this Christmas we will truly celebrate the coming of our Lord and Savior into our broken and sin-infested world like never before. Once again we must remind ourselves that this is not about Santa Claus nor Christmas trees nor festive decor. It’s not about wreaths and garlands, nor ornaments, nor mistletoe. It is really not about gift-giving nor receiving – but it is about Jesus, the Holy Son of God, God the Son, choosing to come and dwell among us, in order to save and redeem us. This is sacred, a most sacred time of the year when we, as His redeemed community, humbly bow our hearts and lives in joyful praise and worship to Him for not forgetting about us.

Mary’s song of praise as she visited with her cousin Elisabeth still fascinates me. Sometimes all we can do as we reflect upon God’s goodness to us, is to sing. In great amazement and wonder she exclaimed in song, “My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46, 47). Can we just do that this Christmas – Magnify the Lord? Sometimes we do everything else but magnify the Lord. We magnify our problems! We magnify humankind! We magnify our leaders and loved ones and even the enemy, but may the Almighty help us this Christmas to minimize all else and to magnify Jesus in a most special way. My soul doth magnify the Lord and as we do so, may our spirits truly rejoice only in God our Savior. May we truly shift focus this Christmas and every day going into 2026.

At this another Christmas Sister Chris and I can only look back in deep gratitude for every blessing and kindness the good Lord has so graciously bestowed upon us as we again traversed this vast region trying to do the little that we can to be the greatest blessing to all His people. We sincerely thank God for every one of you being such an integral part of our lives. You have so greatly enriched our lives. We really do consider you family! We remain thankful for our Jessica, Isaiah, James and Zaiah. They all remain such a blessing as we endeavor always to serve and put Jesus first. Little Zaiah brings such sunshine and joy as she explores her world and causes us to rediscover ours. We pray God’s richest blessings always to overshadow and overtake our family and yours!

May I also take the opportunity at this Christmas time to thank you for responding so graciously to the desperate needs of those languishing from the effects of the dreadful hurricane Melissa. As a result of your sacrificial giving $15,000 were sent to help many of the victims affected. Brethren and saints – thank you! As more funds are received they will be sent also!

May you have the best Christ-centered, Spirit-filled Christmas ever. May you never forget to magnify the Lord and to rejoice not in self or the world, but always only in our Savior. This Christmas we worship and adore Him only. We truly magnify the Lord! We thank Him for regarding our low estate and doing so many mighty things for us! Merry Christmas!