Imagine you're walking down a road somewhere in the Middle East.  You're thinking about your family, your friends, how dreadfully hot it is  outside.  Then suddenly off in the distance you hear the loud voice of some man yelling.  And not just the voice -- you can see a crowd of people gathering around the speaker.  They're obviously quite excited.  As you get in closer you begin to hear some of the words that are being spoken.  "Blessed are the poor, for theirs is the Kingdom of God.  Blessed are those who hunger now, for they shall be satisfied."  You wonder what this man is talking about.

     Today we celebrate the birth of this man: Jesus Christ, God incarnate who changed everything.  Jesus Christ, who removes guilt and shame.  Jesus Christ, the savior of the world.

Merry Christmas, everyone!