Advent invites us to celebrate the multiple paths of how Love is defined by this greatest of all stories in Christmas. “For God so loved the world…that He gives us His Son.” SO LOVED that He gave.

SO LOVED that the virgin Mary was visited by the angel of the Lord to announce that she had been chosen. SO LOVED that shepherds keeping watch over their flocks at night were serenaded by a choir of angels singing, “Good news, of great joy, which shall be to all people.” SO LOVED that the Magi/Kings of the east were drawn by a Star hovering over Bethlehem and the newborn King. SO LOVED that we have been given the greatest story ever told!

In this episode, I distinguish between the Advent season (the coming of Christ, His first coming) and the Christmas season, urging you to embrace the original revelation of Christ. I share reflections on the radical inclusivity of God's love, extending to "all people" from a humble peasant girl like Mary to the working-class shepherds and the mystical Magi (Wise Men). I also explore the power of the Lord's Prayer and the personal challenge of Love's Creed: “I am unavailable for anything less than love.”

I conclude with a call to end the "Christmas Wars" by leading with love and deference, choosing to say "Happy Holidays" or "Merry Christmas" based on a spirit of inclusion and kindness.

The power of love veritably floods the airwaves of our churches, radio, TV, and social media. The power of Love is shining in brilliant colors throughout our neighborhoods. The power of Love is delightfully celebrated in children’s Christmas programs in our schools and churches.

Let's do something beautiful this season. Ugly is getting done to death. Let's rise to the shining of love.