At some point, the Holy Family left the manger.  Yes, first to flee for their lives.  They became asylum seeking refugees for a few years before they were able to safely return to Nazareth.

But was Jesus ever safe once he left the manger?

At some point, we all must leave the safety that life sometimes provides us to venture out into the world that doesn't always welcome us, nor does it welcome the grace that God provides in Jesus.

As this new year is about to begin, I pray that you will sense God's presence with you wherever your journey leads you.   It may be to some comfortable, safe places.  It will likely also be into some dangerous territory where you heart can be broken, dreams shattered, where sadness can be overwhelming.

Just know... the one in the manger.... is Immanuel, God with Us.

And wherever God is... there is life!
 

 

Hope in our journeys,

Pastor Steve Melde