A Message from the Staff - Free Newsletters

An unforgettable year is drawing to a close. Many families and friends will be facing a Christmas without the loved ones lost in the tragic events of September 11. In these times of sorrow and pain, it's easy to wonder if the Christmas phrase "peace on earth" will ever ring true.

But the Christmas story once again reminds us that peace has already come to this earth. "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6, NIV).

Our Prince of Peace arrived more than 2000 years ago, not with chariots and weapons blazing, but humbly as a baby in a manger. Throughout Jesus' life on earth, he demonstrated to us a love so strong that it culminated in his sacrifice on a bloodstained cross.

This Christmas, let's make sure we really remember the reason for the season and reach out to family, friends, and others who may be hurting due to circumstances of the past year. Let's express to them the love that Jesus modeled and freely poured out to us. In the end, our lives aren't about the "stuff" we accumulate, but about how we love God and the people in our lives.

Grace and Peace in Christ,
— John LaRue, Executive Director, and all of us at ChristianityToday.com