ALL IS CALM... ALL IS BRIGHT!

All is calm and all is bright.” More than anything else, that’s what the world truly needs this Christmas. A time of peace, a time of serenity, a time of thanksgiving and a time of quiet reflection to honor the birth of the Savior.

Brotherhood has a few Christmas outreach opportunities at nursing homes and senior dinners. We enjoy giving back to the community, bringing some cheer and joy to the hearts and lives of these dear folk at nursing homes. Many have no family, get few visitors and some I could consider as my aunt, uncle or grandparent! Christ has come for ALL so everyone is to hear the Good News – the old, young, men, women and children of all ages. We are all sinners – just saved by grace!

As usual, I get very melancholy as the year draws to an end. It may be just me, but I can almost predict the time when that “change” occurs. In 2010, with November surgery and recovery, that time was delayed and is not as strong. But this “funk” (as I call it) may be due to not one but many factors. The loss of cherished loved ones in November and December (my Mom, Uncle Sam, the Principato’s) that you can’t help but remember. And, you wish they were still here to share life with (good and bad).

Sometimes you wonder why God takes the good and leaves the bad ones here! I believe it’s because their time on earth is done and God wants them to enjoy heaven with Him. The Bible does say, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant… enter in…”. That’s my solace until we meet again. I also discovered that Vinnie Cioffi, a member of The Torchbearers, recently passed away. I enjoyed their style of gospel music and we had Vinnie attend our wedding as the musical guest.

Also, our earthly time grows shorter yet there’s so much you still want to accomplish. Right now, there’s too much hustle and bustle for the sake of the “holiday season”. Remember, there are friends, relatives, co-workers right in front of you that don’t know the Christmas story! And so we must continue on until the whole earth hears that Jesus Christ is Lord. May the glorious songs of this sacred season, be imbedded into the minds and hearts of those who need to hear the gospel truth. My most favorite carol to sing is “Silent Night” as it provides the sacred Christmas story in just a few minutes.

Christ has not yet returned because it’s not the appointed time… there’s still much work to do for Him and His kingdom. In His strength and by His power, Brotherhood will continue on, as well.

May you all have a very blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!