…from the Pacific Northwest, the emerald land of fir trees, islands, mountains, and Seahawks!

I have loved everything leading up to today…the lights, wreaths on front doors, happy crowds, swags along fences, decorations, packages wrapped with care, shimmering bows, people calling out season’s greetings, reuniting with old friends, and making new ones…

But most of all, I have loved the meaning of this season. For as long as I can remember, people from different faiths, philosophies, and backgrounds have openly embraced the hope of peace on earth and goodwill toward men. So on this day, I always take time to pause and remember the man who healed the lepers, caused the blind to see, calmed the storms, stopped a clamoring crowd from stoning an adulteress, and, in a supreme act of love, allowed his life to be taken so we could all live again. In return He asked only, “That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 34]