Today we celebrate the fourth and final Sunday in Advent. As I look out my window overlooking Manning Street and beyond, everything is awash with white. I heard from Fr. Sam in Maine who experienced the first snowfall of his life and he was overwhelmed with the “beauty of God’s creation”. More often than not, those of us who have seen snow all our lives tend to see it as a nuisance; it takes some new eyes to also appreciate its beauty.

Last weekend, despite the storm, gifts for the giving tree kept flowing in. It is heartwarming to know so many will benefit this Christmas season, all because of your generosity. A great big thanks go to Dave and Janice Fournier, along with all their helpers. Coordinating this effort is no easy task and we are most appreciative.

In a few short days it will be Christmas and I am sure everyone is busy with last minute preparations. As we all exchange gifts and have our holiday gatherings, let’s not forget to take some time to appreciate the original gift giver! It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of these days and to bypass the heart and soul of Christmas. For "unto us a child is born, a son is given, who is Christ the Lord".

Our scriptures this weekend speak to us of ‘Emmanuel’. The literal translation of that word means ‘God is with us’. That is the essence of scripture and certainly the essence of this season. God chose and continues to choose to make His dwelling place among us. May we continue to welcome Him and share His light with all we meet.