And she gave birth to her first-born son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.  ~ Luke 2:7

Notice... "her first-born," not Joseph's. Joseph was the legal father by adoption, but not by conception. Once again, God's Word carefully guards the doctrine of the virgin birth of Christ. I get goosebumps every time I read that verse. 

Like so many of the women and men we speak with on the CARE Line, my "first" child resides in Heaven. Dylan's stocking is missing from our fireplace. His gifts are not under the tree. He's never scribed a wish list or screamed with excitement when he saw what Santa delivered. 

For millions, the holidays hurt because someone is missing. Often a child who would have been the "first-born"! 

Many individuals feel cracked and broken and as if they're hanging by a thread just to get through the holiday season. We know how that feels and we wish to send you our deepest empathy. To those of you reading this ... please know the Lord loves your children with all of His heart. And that your children will be celebrating His amazing birth with the biggest birthday party ever!

Whether we are here on earth or in Heaven, honoring the birth of Christ is an amazing opportunity for celebration. They "went back glorifying and praising God ..." (vs. 20). The shepherds went back to their sheep, to their occupations, and undoubtedly also to their families, but they went back changed men. There would be a new song in their hearts and praise on their lips. They wanted others to know of their Savior.

This Savior... changed my life, restored my faith and forgave the death of my children. He can do the same for you and the people you love. 

Those of you who feel cracked, broken and who's luster may be gone... who may feel like Christmas is just not what it's cracked up to be... please, please reach out for help. 

Others... please offer assistance to someone you know is hurting. Those impacted emotionally or psychologically by abortion can feel "whole" again with renewed sparkle, and a new joy in their heart!

ARIN Partners, thank you for being like Christ! Thank you all for having an open heart this year to the women, men and families that have lost an unborn child. We are grateful for your continued support and dedication to our mission of restoring lives and relationships. We can not possibly serve the Kingdom without you! Nor could we have assisted over 40,000 in 2012. To our Heavenly Father goes the Glory!

Our prayer for all of you...

May you have the gift of faith, the blessing of hope and the peace of His love at Christmas and always. May you experience His light and may it's reflection impact those whom your life touches.