Simeon took [the baby] in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” – Luke 2:28-32

Christmas Eve in Wake Forest was wet and stormy, all day and into the night. Then morning dawned bright and cool.

I have to admit I was surprised at how moving and authentic worship was at WFPC. Rebekah and I really enjoyed the short “Family Service” at 4:00, then we have my parents over for the traditional “Lessons and Carols” at 7:00. They said it was just like “coming to church.”

Between the beautiful music, and then one of the more powerful Christmas Eve messages Rebekah has shared, I experience many of the same emotions I’m used to feeling when we meet in person: Joy, peace, hope, love, tears, laughter.

Christmas Day:

In a couple of words: “Too quiet”!! Did we ever miss the presence of absolutely everyone – especially the grandchildren.

But it was a good day, offering the opportunity to give my parents the gift of a gentle, focused, generous Christmas Day.

Many of these photographs are the classic, cheesy, “look what I just opened!” variety. But they tell the story well and it was a good story.

Any generosity we share is simply a reflection of the abundant gifts of life and love we receive from the heart of Christmas, and that is God’s breaking into time and space and choosing to live with us and for us.

Merry Christmas to all; peace, blessings, love, and promise – DEREK