Life Announced to the World

In the stillness of night, heaven bursts into song—“Good news of great joy!” The Wonderful Life is found not in power or place but in Emmanuel’s presence.

Luke 2:8-20 

As we sit down to write this, we admit things didn’t go as planned. We had hoped to make a video, but life happened—sickness, the busyness of the season, and even the tree not being set up yet. Sound familiar? Maybe you’re still running around trying to finish Christmas prep—outfits for Christmas Eve service, last-minute gifts, and don’t even get us started on wrapping!

Right now, we’re writing these thoughts while recovering from sickness and feeling the weight of the season. Typically, on Christmas Eve, after a beautiful service at The Naz, we come home, open our Christmas pajamas, share a snack, read the Christmas story from Luke, and then Twas the Night Before Christmas. Then comes the challenge of convincing the kids to sleep before the excitement of Christmas morning. After that, we finish wrapping, and when the house finally grows quiet, we take a deep breath. In that moment—there is peace.

The first Christmas wasn’t picture-perfect either. The promised Messiah was born in a barn and laid in a feeding trough because there was no room in Bethlehem. This wasn’t how it was supposed to be. No parade, no royal welcome—just simplicity and humility. And yet, God chose that setting for His Son’s arrival. Angels appeared to shepherds, and they hurried to see the newborn King. Mary treasured these moments in her heart.

This Christmas Eve, even if things haven’t gone as planned—whether you’re staying up late wrapping or wishing you had someone to wrap for—our prayer is that you pause at the manger. Take a moment to soak in the quiet and find peace, knowing that being with Jesus is exactly where God wants you to be.

Katie’s Thoughts: “Mary’s example to store precious moments in her heart is inspiring to me. As a mother, I want to remember every special moment. This Christmas, I encourage you to pause during a special moment and take a mental picture. Recognize it as a gift from your loving Father and store it up in your heart. I pray in doing so, that we all are filled with the knowledge of how great our Father’s love is for us.”

Our Prayer for You:
May you find peace in the quiet, joy in His presence, and hope in the Savior who came for you. Merry Christmas!
—David & Katie Morrison