I was thinking about talking to my grandchildren about the real meaning of Christmas. I think it is like a big birthday party for the greatest person ever born. Jesus is so great we have a tradition of throwing a huge party to celebrate his birth. But a lot of people have fallen in love with the huge party, rather than with Jesus. In fact some consider Jesus a hindrance to having a good time during the party.

As Christ followers we know the real reason for the celebration. It is all about Jesus' birth and its meaning to the world. A promise was made to the virgin Mary. "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; His kingdom will never end." (Luke 1:32,33)  And of course Jesus was born.  He taught us how to live, died for us and rose from the grave establishing His right to rule and reign in our hearts.  Later in Romans 15:17, Jesus' kingdom is described as not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

While the world is becoming more polarized with fear and anger. I hope you will find space this season to remember and soak in the knowledge that we are living in His kingdom here and now. We are the people of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Now that is something worthy of a party.

Wishing you and your family the Christmas season's joys and wonders. Enjoy the celebration of our Savior's birth!

Sincerely, 

Steve and Susie Welling and the

Converge Northwest Team