Merry Christmas
and a
Blessed Year 2016

The Year 2015 will be remembered as the year of Refugees. The media made us experience the plight of the masses of people as they had to leave their homes to look for refuge in a new world.

Joseph and Mary were dislodged from their home in Nazareth through the decree of the Emperor, that all people would have to return to place of their ancestors. As they arrived they did not find where to lodge and ended up lodging in a stable. It was there that Jesus was born. The manger had to serve as his first resting place.

Soon after the birth of Jesus they had leave in order to escape from persecution and the danger of death and seek refuge in Egypt.
It seems to be a current story that repeats itself time and again.

The King of Kings can understand the plight of refugees, he was one himself. Jesus did not arrive in this world in a palace secured from all danger. He came to all of us, even the refugees. He identified himself with all of us in our plight.

Let us reflect on these happenings this Christmas season. Like Jesus came for all and did not forget those in need, let not forget the refugees. If you are a refuge yourself you must know that Jesus identified himself with you. He came to carry our burden, He came to be our savior. He came to bring us peace. He came to bring us good news. That we call the gospel!

Jesus still comes into our circumstances. He identifies with us. He comes to help and direct our affairs, if we allow him to do so. This is what Christmas is all about. Jesus comes into our world, he comes into your world too.

Let us give Him room in our lives. May the Lord be your guide this season and in the year to come.

Helmut and Esther Reutter