Love came down at Christmas in the birth of the Christ Child.  We come to kneel at the manger and we see God face to face.

(“The Adoration of the Shepherds” insert, by Christian W.E. Dietrich)

As we come face to face with God, we encounter the fullness of God as “Emmanuel”, God with us.  In that same encounter is our face, the fullness of all God created in us to be and to become.  Here is a Christmas blessing for you from “A Blessing of Angels” by Joyce Rupp…

“May the angel of birthing bless you, calling forth wonder, awe, and gratitude for all that has helped you to become your true self.”

In coming face to face with God at the manger, we experience the LOVE of God, and that LOVE comes to live in us.  “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God, and anyone who loves is born of God and knows God.  Anyone who does not love does not know God; for God is love”  (I John 4: 7-8).

I love this photograph of Elva Azzara, age 93.  It is from the book, “Wise Women”, photographer Joyce Tenneson.  I want this to be me at 93!

Ah, the gift at the manger!  Love to you my friend….Merry Christmas!

nk