A Christmas Wish From CORE
Some time ago, a baby was born in the little town of Bethlehem. His parents had arrived as travelers. There was no room for them at the inn, so the mother gave birth in a stable. The newborn was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger.
By outward appearances, the backdrop of this story suggests humble beginnings. But this was no ordinary child, and His birth did not go unnoticed. Both angels and a rising star proclaimed His coming. Emissaries from foreign lands arrived bearing gifts, and news of the events carried to the highest levels of government. For in this child lay the hope of all humanity. His life’s mission would be, quite simply, to save the world. He came as God’s servant, that we might have life and have it abundantly.
Christmas is a season of hope. We commemorate God becoming human in Jesus, fulfilling prophesies of old. He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows so that we might expect something better. We have been offered an unimaginably valuable gift, one that we didn’t work for and were powerless to achieve on our own. Jesus conquered death and redeemed us, that we might have life forever. God loves us that much, and that’s cause to celebrate!
At Christmas we show goodwill with cheer. There is laughter and joy, to be sure, but also kindness and compassion, gifts, and helping others. And what happens? We see faces light up, and a sense of warmth bubbles up inside of us. The Lord’s express command to act the Good Samaritan, it so happens, is no burden at all. In fact, we rather are filled with warmth, happiness and a sense of fulfillment. We are reminded of Lord’s words, that “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Helping others is especially important for us who are recovered. When all of the medical and scientific measures failed, as so often happened, it was because our sickness had been spiritual all along. Once that malady was overcome, we invariably straightened out mentally and physically. By trusting God, cleaning house, and helping others, we found a new freedom and a new happiness. We who are recovered are well-advised to honor Christmas in our hearts, and to keep it all the year.
The Lord has said, “I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.” With this in mind, we at CORE have several holiday wishes to express.
To the still suffering addict and alcoholic:
We understand your suffering and sense of helplessness. We’ve lived it. If you feel abandoned and forgotten by others, it’s because they simply don’t know what to do. Don’t lose hope. God does have a plan for you. You can be reunited with family and friends, know true freedom and happiness, and live with meaning and purpose. Please call us. We’ll show you how it works.
To the donors and partners of CORE:
Your beautiful hearts have supported this ministry. You showed your faith through your assistance and gifts, and God has responded. He who multiplied the loaves and fishes has compounded your charity into many miraculous recoveries and good works for our surrounding communities. God’s love works powerfully through you. You’re simply the best. Thank you so much. Stand firm in the faith.
And to All, and Everyone:
May Your Christmas be Merry and Bright
with the Light of God’s Love