Merry Christmas!

I love how Jesus began his ministry by declaring his mission in the synagogue of his home town (Nazareth).

"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." -Luke 4:18

We have reason to celebrate!

As there is no shortage of bad news out there, we need to remember Jesus' words. They give us reason to hope and even celebrate! War, injustice, oppression, evil, and not even death will prevail in the long run. Love and Life have come in Jesus Christ. He is our rescue and our hope.

Remembering our uprooted friends

Let's remember our friends who celebrate this Christmas in refugee camps, detention centers, homeless shelters, and even in makeshift encampments. They are celebrating in the midst of hardships, suffering, and toxic uncertainty. Let's give up a prayer for them today. Perhaps you can simply pray this prayer with me now.

"Father in heaven, God with us now

We come to you in the name of Jesus.

You hear the cries of those who have been uprooted by war and persecution in the world

women, children, and men.

You know their wounds. You know their sorrows. You know their fears.

Let them know your presence with them today.

Impress upon them the reality that you see, hear, and care deeply for them.

Breathe fresh strength and hope into their bodies, hearts, and minds.

Give them today a nourishing meal.

Give them today reasons to smile and celebrate.

We now join our prayers to theirs

Lead them to a place where they can settle and rebuild their lives.

We pray with a deep longing that your kingdom will soon come.

So be it."

 Thank you for your friendship, generosity, and prayers for our IAFR team in 2023!

Merry Christmas!