While visiting the Holy Land in 2015, we experienced a snowstorm in and around Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Then seminarian, now Pastor, Jesse Caniff-Kuhn fashioned the Holy Family on a tabletop in Beit Jala. I love this scene both because of its simplicity in displaying a non traditional yet recognizable family portrait, but also because at the top of the photo a portion of the wall that divides families and peoples is also visible.

This year as we read from Matthew’s gospel we have the same dynamic present; the wonder of the birth of the Christ child, and the threat to the baby’s life by King Herod.  The good news of Jesus Christ brings both peace to his followers and can be a cause of conflict with the principalities and powers of this world. That is as true today as back in Jesus’ day.

May God bless you as you follow the way of Jesus.

God’s peace & hope, Pastor Jon