I know I am a day late to wish you a Merry Christmas, but I pray the spirit of Christmas, for you, did not come and go with a date on the calendar.  During 2009, I know that many, many of you faced some of the greatest challenges of your life.  It is especially for you that I want to say, Jesus came just because we live in a world full of challenges and trials.  In fact, he immersed himself in humanity to the point of experiencing many of the very trials you are facing and at the end of his time as a man, he faced the most terrible challenge of being falsely accused, despised and killed by the very world he came to save.  We know that, for our sakes, he eventually triumphed over his challenges, and you can triumph as well.

The word "BELIEVE!" has almost become a meaningless cliche' . . . especially during this season.  Recently, I even noticed it as the slogan for Macy's department stores, plastered on every shopping bag.  So . . . what is it we are to believe in?  If you look at the homepage of our website, you will see that what we want for you is to BELIEVE . . . in our capacity to care for you, in the power of your own attitude, but most of all that God loves you and wants the BEST for your life!

What better time of year to be reminded of that love and the BEST gift that could ever be imagined . . . Jesus!  My hope and prayer for each of you is that, no matter what challenges you faced in the past year, no matter what you are facing today, and no matter what awaits you in 2010 . . . you will BELIEVE in the hope and promise of Christmas in your heart . . . every day!!

God bless each of you,

Karen