In my faith community, we celebrated today the birth of Jesus Christ, who we believe is our Lord and Saviour. I don't think we have a monopoly on salvation by any means, but I do think those who follow the teachings of Christ to the best of our all-too-human abilities will be looked upon favorably on Judgement Day and we will enter the Kingdom of God. I think that's also likely true of those who see paradise, nirvana, or some other form of salvation.

I also beleive that -- even in this broken world -- there are innumerable examples of God's grace at work. My own life is a perfect example. I am an imperfect man: vain, selfish, undisciplined. Yet I have a wonderful family, a supportive community, meaningful work and service, and every material thing any man could ever want. Interestingly, I spend less time now than ever before worrying about and striving for material gain, yet more rewards come to me now than ever. I don't think that's a coincidence.

All the great faith communities have times set aside to give thanks and to appreciate all that we have been given... and to come to understand what is expected of us on our own faith journey. My prayer at this and every Christmas is the same: the first part comes from Don Henley... I pray "to want what I have, and take what I'm given with grace." Then I pray that God will give me the strength and courage to love and serve Him in singeleness of heart all the days of my life.

Amen.