But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” – Luke 2:10-12

Merry Christmas, my friends! I do not know what your expectations for this day have been or whether they have been met. I certainly didn’t expect to greet this joyous day feeling lousy, several days into one of the worst colds I’ve had in a long time.

I don’t know whether you are surrounded by loved ones or wishing you could be closer to those who are dear to you. My house is blessedly filled with laughter of family that drove many hours to celebrate Christmas here.

I don’t know how Christmas celebrations look at your house or what the day means to you. But I hope you will take time to read the Christmas story in Luke. I love that the story promises great joy for all and also says that the baby has been “born for you.”

I also hope you will take some time outside today in this beautiful world we share. And I hope that this will be a merry Christmas for you.