Chased by Grace: Finding God Where You Are This Christmas

Dear Beloved in Christ,

Merry Christmas!

As the lights of the season illuminate our homes and sanctuaries, I find myself drawn to the words of Psalm 139: “Where could I go to get away from your spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? If I went up to heaven, you would be there. If I went down to the grave, you would be there too!” This profound reminder of God’s abiding presence feels especially poignant in this holy season.

Christmas reveals that the God who formed us in secret places, who knows our thoughts from afar, chose to step into creation. In Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God is with us—not distantly observing, but intimately entering into our joys, struggles, and hopes. What a wonder it is to know that the Creator of the stars also cares for every detail of your life and mine.

As we gather to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us also remember that his birth points to God’s relentless pursuit of us. Wherever this season finds you—amidst joy and laughter, in moments of quiet reflection or even grief—God is with you. You are seen. You are known. You are deeply loved.

Charles Wesley captures this truth beautifully in his hymn Love Divine, All Loves Excelling:

“Jesus, thou art all compassion, pure, unbounded love thou art;

Visit us with thy salvation; enter every trembling heart.”

Let this be our prayer this Christmas: that the Christ who entered the world so humbly would also enter our hearts anew, filling us with his transformative love and peace.

Abernethy Memorial, as we reflect on the light of Christ, let us also commit to being his light in our community. May we carry the hope of Bethlehem’s manger into a world longing for redemption.

Merry Christmas, and may God’s blessings overflow in your life during this sacred season.

With love and joy,

Dr. Kaury