Christmas is built upon a beautiful and intentional paradox; that the birth of the homeless child should be celebrated in every home. G. K. Chesterton
Our First Reading on this beautiful Christmas Day hails from the great Prophet Isaiah who speaks with the most profound enthusiasm about what can and should be in our hearts today: “The LORD has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.” There is simply an entire breed of announcements that simply cannot be made without singing and deep joy literally bubbling over the top of the message itself. Today is one of those announcements; Christ is Born! “All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.”
Today in the Gospel, we have presented the famous Prologue of St. John that tells of the cosmic and pre-history of the Messiah right before our ears and eyes. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The very reason for our songs and carols and a burst of joy on this day is that from all time the One who was promised to us has finally arrived, and we are now safe and saved and empowered to walk in the light of Christ for the rest of our lives. This was no accident.
And you and I are no accident, either. We were meant to be here and to make a great impact on those around us with the same hope and anticipation of the first Christmas Day. Attempt to spend this night, the First day of Christmas, as the famous carol implores, “counting your blessings instead of sheep.” There is simply too much joy to go around for each and every one of us. Merry Christmas! God bless us all, everyone!
“Probably the reason we all go so haywire at Christmas time with the endless unrestrained and often silly buying of gifts is that we don’t quite know how to put our love into words.” Harlan Miller
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”