Green bean casserole, mistletoe, gingerbread cookies… these are all things that people say is their favorite part of the Christmas season. These things are special not because they don’t exist the rest of the year, but because you only think about them and bring them out once a year. But the hope that was given to the world, the hope that came and was laid in a manger in Bethlehem is not seasonal. Hope is not just for the Christmas season, it’s for every day.

Luke 2:7-14, “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

This hope and good will toward men is good not only once a year but all year round. As you gather with your family and friends, remember that “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” is not for just Christmas day but for every day.

CHARITIES

Producer Neil here. I have been asked many times if there are any charities that I like, and while there are many, here is a short list of one that is local (to me, Southern California), two that are national and one that is international. If you feel moved to give this season, these organizations are certainly worthwhile recipients.

Please take the time to visit all of the links below to get a feel for each of the organizations:

LOCAL:

 NATIONAL:

INTERNATIONAL: