Friday December 25 2015  A LETTER TO MY READERS

Dear Friends and Family:

Isn’t it amazing that in the United States, Christmas is considered the one revered day that almost everyone has off from their place of employment?  Of course the well-oiled machine of our society could not really exist with EVERY SINGLE PERSON OFF FROM WORK.  There is always a need for the police officers, firemen, first responders, hospital personnel, gas stations, internet management, utility workers, and of course restaurant workers for those who MUST eat out, plus accommodations for all those traveling and their accommodations.  There are probably many other jobs that I haven’t named that could be included on this list.  But, everyone hopes to have it off.  The sad part of it is that though December 25^th is revered by many, the very reason we have it off is no longer considered part of the festivities for many. 

For those who actually BELIEVE the story of our Savior’s birth, we are the ones who are often mocked, ridiculed, and even unable to discuss God or the Bible in public or in government run institutions (such as schools and work places).  We no longer have CHRISTMAS TREES but holiday trees.  In some places we must not say MERRY CHRISTMAS but happy holidays.   Many schools no longer allow Christmas songs that mention God or the birth of baby Jesus.  But…it is certainly a day that everyone wants to have off.

So today, if you are one of those who must work, I send you my many thanks for keeping our country and homes safe.  I send you a Merry Christmas and pray God’s blessings on each one of you. 

Our son has Christmas off once every four or five years due to him being on a rotation schedule with the police department where he is employed.  This was his special year!  He even had Christmas Eve off due to his, work six days, off three days, work schedule.  It was such a pleasure to actually celebrate this year on the day we chose to celebrate (which was Christmas Eve), rather than get together on a weekend or at night. 

And to all of you who did not work today I also send you special Greetings and a very Merry Christmas!

AS YOU HONOR THIS DAY IN HISTORY

By Kathleen Martens

December 25, 2015

Merry Christmas one and all

On this day of glad tidings and joy.

Whether at hearth and home

Or at your place of employ.

May God richly bless you

As you honor this day in history

That celebrates the birth of God’s son,

The greatest of all time mysteries.

Merry Christmas and to all a good night.

With much love,

Kathleen

P.S.  My Christmas Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to provide the way of salvation for my sin.  I worship and adore You Lord for sending love to this earth through Your Son who was willing to die for the sins of all men, so that all can have the opportunity to approach a God who is holy and righteous.  Jesus, thank You for providing this gift of life to me and others that when we ask with faith, You will come into our hearts.  I worship and adore You Lord and I praise Your holy name.  Thank You for this special day of celebration to give honor and praise to You, The Holy King, who was born in a stable.  Thank You that You have sent Your Holy Spirit to abide within me.  You are my hope and You are my strength.  In You, I put my trust. 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!