December 24 ~  Good News of Great Joy First Christmas

"I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." ~ Luke 2:10-12

Today is the eve of the birth of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, born nearly 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem, a small town just south of Jerusalem which was part of the Roman Empire. The word "Christ" is from the Greek khristos, which means "anointed one" or "Messiah."

The Son of God, a prophet and miracle-worker, this gentle Jew lived his life with grace, wisdom, and compassion. Jesus was a holy man who taught unconditional love, with the two greatest commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart" and "Love your neighbor as yourself."

To those who believe in Him and live according to His teachings, Jesus promises eternal life. More than one billion people around the world today follow his teachings.

ChristmasGlory to God in the highest, and on earth peace.