The first decade of the 21st century is quickly drawing to a close, but before we greet 2010, we have the opportunity to celebrate the birth of a baby born in a stable some two millennia ago. For it was with the birth of the Christ-child that you and I have the hope of an eternity of peace and joy with our Lord and Savior. I hope you have the opportunity to spend some time with your family and friends to celebrate the gift of salvation made available through Christ’s sacrifice at Calvary and his victorious resurrection three days later.
Even as we take this time to focus on the birth of Christ, we also can take some time to reflect on the year we’re about to exit. Hardly any of us would have believed that December 2009 would have witnessed the market recovery we have seen since this last March. It’s easy to say good riddance to this year, but before we enter 2010, may we offer some counsel for the new year, taken from Deuteronomy 11:10–24.
Even though there may be hills and valleys, God will be the source for our provisions. His eyes are upon us. He promises that if we love Him and serve Him with all our hearts, then His blessing will be upon us, and He goes before us.
One of the names for Jesus is Immanuel (God with us). Through good times, and rough times — and we all experience our share — God is with us. May God bless you and your family this Christmas season.