Christmas Message 2024

Christmas Greetings, siblings in Christ! 

In the Gospel of Matthew, we find the beautiful narrative of the birth of Jesus, the fulfillment of God’s promise to be with His people. We read, “‘Look, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,’ which means, ‘God is with us.’” This promise uttered centuries ago in Bethlehem, echoes through time, resonating across the ages that no matter who we are or where we are, God is with each and every one of us! 

The birth of Jesus is a testament to God’s love for humanity—a love so deep that He chose to enter into the human experience, to dwell among us in the person of His Son. The very name Immanuel encapsulates the essence of the Christmas story—the reality that God, in all His majesty, chose to be present with us, to share in our joys and sorrows, and to walk with us on our earthly journey. 

As we gather with family, friends, and fellow believers to celebrate the birth of the Christ child, let us be reminded of the profound meaning of Christmas: “God is with us.” The stable in Bethlehem, the simple manger, and the holy family gathered around the newborn King remind us of the humility and accessibility of our Creator. The God of the universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, invites us into a relationship marked by intimacy and closeness. 

This Christmas, let us strive to be mindful of God’s abiding presence in our lives. In the season’s busyness, may we find moments of quiet reflection, recognizing the sacredness of the Incarnation—the Word made flesh. In the faces of those we encounter and the beauty of creation, may we witness the reality of God’s ongoing presence, transcending time and space. 

The message of Christmas is one of hope and redemption, which resonates with the promise of a Savior who came not to condemn but to save. As we exchange gifts and share in the warmth of festive gatherings, let us extend the love of Christ to those around us, embodying the spirit of Immanuel in our relationships and actions. 

Looking ahead to the new year, may the truth of “God is with us” inspire and guide us in all we undertake as a diocesan family. Together, let us continue to grow in love, grace, and discipleship, confident that the abiding presence of our Lord marks our journey. 

I am deeply grateful for your faithfulness and commitment to the mission of our diocese. May the joy and peace of Christ’s birth be with you and your loved ones, and may the coming year be filled with the blessings that flow from the knowledge that God is truly with us. 

In Christ’s abiding love, 

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Susan Brown Snook 

Episcopal Diocese of San Diego