After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. 

— Matthew 2:9-11

Christmas is a season full of movement. The nativity story itself is a tapestry of journeys. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. The shepherds hurried from their fields to the manger. The magi traversed faraway lands, following a star. Even the angels traveled from the realms of heaven to proclaim, “Glory to God in the highest!” 

I am currently somewhere in the air between Burlington and Philadelphia, or at least I hope I am. I scheduled this post a few days ago. I’m on my way to see family for Christmas. I would say, I am going home, but Vermont is my home now and has been for a while. Alabama is where my family is and where I grew up. One of the popular classic Christmas songs is “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” It’s a song that stirs memories of connection, love, and the longing for home—a place where we are seen, cherished, and known. But what does it mean to be home for Christmas, especially for those of us in the LGBTQ+ community? For some, home is a place of comfort and joy. For others, like me, it can be a complicated memory or even a wound. And for many, home is something we have had to build ourselves—choosing love, creating family, and shaping spaces where we are celebrated for who we are. 

Many of you may be traveling this week, whether home, to visit family, or taking a Christmas vacation. Travel is central to this season. And, in some ways, we are all traveling. Whether literally—on crowded roads, in bustling airports—or metaphorically—on personal journeys of faith, healing, or rediscovery—this time of year reminds us that life is a pilgrimage. But traveling isn’t easy, is it? Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem was grueling. The shepherds left their flocks, stepping into uncertainty. The magi followed a distant light, navigating unfamiliar terrain. Each journey was fraught with challenges, but each was also guided by a deeper purpose. Their journeys were not just about the destination but about transformation. And the same is true for us. 

Traveling often takes us out of our comfort zones. I’m afraid of flying, though I have gotten better as I have had to fly more often in the past ten years. Sometimes, we travel to new and unfamiliar places, and it can really take us out of our comfort zone if we are alone in our travels. But it can also be a liberating experience. We can be more ourselves in a strange place because no one we know are there. Whether the travels we take are literally journey, or the spiritual path we’re on, there’s uncertainty in leaving what we know. Some of us may feel like Mary and Joseph, carrying heavy burdens on a road we didn’t choose. Others may feel like the magi, searching for something we can’t yet name. 

Sometimes the path feels lonely, or the way forward unclear. Yet the story of Christmas reminds us that God walks with us. Whether we are weary travelers like Mary and Joseph or seekers like the magi, God does not abandon us on the road. However, remember what Psalm 121:7-8 says, “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” The magi had the star to guide them—a beacon of hope, a sign that they were on the right path. We, too, have light for our journeys. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” 

The light for our journey might come in the form of Scripture, prayer, or the love of our community. God’s light might come through moments of unexpected grace—a kind word, a door opened, a heart softened. Even when the road feels dark, God places stars in our lives to remind us that we are not lost. John 8:12 tells us, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” The magi didn’t know exactly where their journey would take them, but they trusted the star. In Matthew 2:2, the magi said to Herod, “We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When they finally arrived to find Jesus, their trust was rewarded with joy.  

When we think about the Christmas story, it’s easy to focus on the stable as the destination. But the true destination was not the place—it was the presence of Christ. In 1 John 1:5, we are told, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” This is what all our traveling leads to: encountering the divine. Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Whether your journey is one of faith, reconciliation, healing, or self-discovery, the promise of Christmas is that God is waiting for you, not at some distant destination, but in the very heart of your journey. 

When the magi arrived, they were overjoyed—not because the road had been easy, but because they found what they were searching for. In Christ, they found the fulfillment of their hopes and the embodiment of God’s love. This Christmas, I encourage you to reflect on the journey you’re on. Where are you headed? What are you seeking? And where might God be calling you to take the next step? Jesus tells the disciples in Matthew 28:19 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” We don’t have to go our preaching on the street corners to spread the word of Christ, we just need to live in the way Christ commands us to and follow his example of love and kindness. All of our journeys are different. Perhaps your journey is toward forgiveness. Maybe it’s toward reconnection with family or friends. It could be about rediscovering your faith or offering love to someone in need. Wherever your journey takes you, know this: God is with you every step of the way. Christ came to dwell among us so that no road would ever be traveled alone. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

And as we travel, we are also called to be like the magi—to bring our gifts to Christ and to the world. What gifts can you bring this season? A listening ear? A kind word? A helping hand? Every gift, no matter how small, becomes sacred when offered in love. Christmas reminds us that the journey matters as much as the destination. Like the magi, we are all travelers, seeking the light. We will find joy—not in perfection or ease, but in the presence of Christ, who meets us right where we are. So, take heart on your journey. Follow the light, trust the road, and know that joy awaits.

“And she gave birth to her firstborn son, wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

—Luke 2:7

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

—Romans 8:38-39

As we approach the Christmas season, it’s easy to get caught up in the lights, gifts, and festivities. While these traditions can bring joy, for many in the LGBTQ+ community, Christmas can be a season of mixed emotions—one of longing and love, but also one of hurt and exclusion. While some are warmly welcomed home, others face rejection, strained family relationships, or the sting of feeling unwelcome in spaces where Christ’s name is worshipped. I have my own issues with my family, and I’ll be completely honest, I am dreading going home next weekend. My family welcomes me back, but there is always tension, partly because of my sexuality and partly because of my liberal politics. I never feel completely welcomed amongst my family.

So, while many in the LGBTQ+ might feel excluded from Christian celebrations of Christmas, the truth is that Christmas is for everyone. The message of Jesus’ birth is one of inclusion, radical love, and hope. If you’ve ever felt excluded, take heart—Jesus Himself was born into a world that had no room for Him. Today, let us reflect on how we, as LGBTQ+ people and allies, can find belonging, healing, and purpose during this sacred season.

The Christmas story begins with rejection. Luke 2:7 says, “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born in a manger, a place reserved for animals, not royalty. Jesus’ life began with exclusion and hardship, and He grew up in a society that often misunderstood Him. When you feel excluded—whether by family, church, or community—remember that Christ understands your pain. He, too, lived on the margins. The beauty of Christmas is that God chose to enter the world in humility. Emmanuel—God with us—means that no matter where you are or how the world treats you, God is with you, fully present in your pain and joy alike.

At its core, Christmas is a story of radical love. In Luke 2:10, the angel declared to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” The shepherds were outcasts—rough, overlooked, and considered unworthy by society. Yet they were the first to hear the news of Jesus’ birth. This reminds us that God’s love and grace are not limited by human prejudices. The same good news proclaimed to the shepherds is for you, no matter what others may say about your identity or worth. The story of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12), the wise men from the east, further highlights that Christ’s birth was a global event meant for all nations, all peoples, and all identities. God’s love transcends the boundaries we create, embracing diversity in its fullness.

If this season feels heavy, know that you are not alone. Jesus redefined family in Matthew 12:50, saying, “For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” If your biological family cannot fully embrace you, lean into your chosen family—those who see you, love you, and walk with you in faith. Create spaces where love and affirmation abound, whether through gatherings with friends, support groups, or faith communities that celebrate your full identity. The world’s rejection can never outweigh God’s acceptance. Romans 8:31 says, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Paul reminds us that nothing—nothing—can separate us from the love of God. Meditate on this truth when you feel unworthy or unwelcome. Psalms 139:14 says, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.” We are created in the image of God and deeply loved. Jesus calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Even in times of hardship, you have the power to embody the love of Christ. Volunteer, give, and reach out to others who may be struggling this season. Your light has the power to inspire and heal.

The manger scene—simple, messy, and unexpected—is a symbol of God’s open arms. John 14:3 says, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” The good news of Christmas is that there is room for all in God’s kingdom. At Christmas, we remember that Jesus came to break down barriers and build a table where everyone has a seat. The barriers that mainstream Christianity has created—against LGBTQ+ people, women, people of color, and others—are human constructs, not divine. God’s table is wide, and God’s love is unconditional. Don’t let anyone convince you that you are anything less than a beloved child of God. This Christmas, claim your place at the manger, knowing that Christ came for you, just as you are.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us remember that this season is for everyone. If you’ve ever felt excluded, take heart—Jesus Himself was born in a stable, surrounded by the forgotten and the overlooked. His birth is a reminder that God’s love reaches into every corner of the world and every heart, no matter how marginalized or broken. So, this Christmas, hold onto the hope that Christ brings. Lean into the love of God, the support of chosen family, and the knowledge that you are wonderfully made in the image of the One who came to save us all.

Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law, he meditates day and night. 

—Psalms 1:1-2

Psalms 1:1-2 describes the happiness and deep fulfillment of the person who avoids sin and delights in God’s word. This person actively avoids being influenced by sinful behavior, refusing to adopt the lifestyle or attitudes of the wicked. The source of their strength and guidance is the continual reflection on and delight in God’s teachings. Psalms 1:3 compares them to a tree, “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” A well-rooted tree, symbolizing stability, vitality, and fruitfulness, while the stream signifies a constant source of life and nourishment, i.e., God’s presence and guidance. The lives of the righteous produce good results, their fruit, in alignment with God’s timing and purposes resulting in prosperity of spiritual success in God’s eyes. 

Jesus discusses the concept of “good fruit” in several passages in the Gospels, often using it as a metaphor for the results of a person’s character, actions, or faith. In Matthew 7:17-18, Jesus says, “Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.” This passage comes from the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus emphasizes that true discipleship is revealed by a person’s actions and the fruit their life produces. He contrasts genuine faith, which results in good deeds, with hypocrisy or false teaching, which leads to bad outcomes. In John 15:5, Jesus uses the image of a vine and its branches to teach that good fruit results from remaining in close relationship with Him. He says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” 

James 1:22 states, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” James emphasizes the importance of living out God’s Word rather than merely hearing it. It warns against self-deception, which occurs when someone listens to Scripture but does not apply its teachings in their daily life. We show genuine faith through obedience and action, not just passive knowledge, or acknowledgment of the truth. James, like Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount and the writer of the Psalms, encourages believers to integrate their faith into their actions, making God’s Word a transformative force in their lives. 

As we enter December and celebrate the birth of Christ, let us remember that we should be doers who are trees that produce good fruits for our efforts to honor and follow the teachings of Jesus. We have to remain steadfast and follow the Message of Jesus and turn away from the ungodly who will lead us astray. The celebration of Christ’s birth is a time of giving, but not just giving physical gifts, but showing our faithfulness through our actions not our words. When we are children, we are often all about the receiving of gifts, but as adults, we should focus more on giving. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 13:11-13, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now, we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

— 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

In the United States, we celebrate Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November. In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October, and Germany celebrates it on the first Sunday of October. As those of us in the US gather to celebrate Thanksgiving this Thursday, let us take a moment to reflect on the true essence of gratitude. Thanksgiving is not merely a day or a meal; it is the spirit of the heart, a discipline of recognizing God’s goodness in every season of life. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on our blessings and express gratitude. However, as believers, giving thanks should not just be an annual tradition—it should be a way of life. James 1:17 says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” When we pause to thank God, we align our hearts with His, focusing not on what we lack but on His abundant provision.

For most of November, many Americans have not felt much to be thankful for after the results of the presidential election. Many of us have been depressed at the attitudes and actions of our fellow Americans and have suffered intense anxiety over what will happen over the next four years. With every announcement of a new cabinet appointment, the situation seems increasingly more dire. The inmates are gearing up to run the asylum. So, how can we give thanks when life feels difficult? The answer lies in trusting God. Gratitude flows from a heart that recognizes God’s goodness and faithfulness, even when we do not fully understand His plans. When we focus on His unchanging nature, we can find reasons to rejoice, even in the hardest seasons. Psalm 107:1 tells us to “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” Remember that, in Christ, we have an eternal hope that surpasses our present challenges. In 2 Corinthians 4:17–18, Paul told the Corinthians, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Paul encourages us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18,“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It is easy to give thanks when life is good, but true thanksgiving is found in trusting God even in hardship. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” When we remember that God works all things for our good, we can thank Him even in trials, knowing He is refining us. Gratitude is a powerful testimony of faith. Jesus demonstrated this when He healed the ten lepers in Luke 17:11–19. Only one returned to thank Him, and Jesus said, “Your faith has made you well.” Thanksgiving sets us apart as people who recognize and respond to God’s grace.

This Thanksgiving, take time to reflect on God’s blessings, even in areas where you might not normally think to give thanks. For example, thank Him for lessons learned through challenges, for His provision in times of need, and for the gift of salvation through Jesus. Over the coming year, take time each day to count your blessings, whether big or small. Write down three things you are thankful for each day. Share your thanks with God in prayer and with others in encouragement. Let us remember the words of David in Psalm 9:1, “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds.” Thanksgiving is not a fleeting moment but a way of life that honors God and transforms us. As we give thanks today, may our gratitude draw us closer to the Giver of every good gift.

For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men— as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.

—1 Peter 2:15-16

I have always believed that the most important message in Christianity is that Christians should live in a way that exemplifies goodness and righteousness. By being a decent human being and doing good, God says we can silence our critics who speak against Christians out of ignorance or prejudice. As LGBTQ+ Christians this is especially important because so many people who consider themselves to be Christian do not accept us as part of the Christian community, or at least as not living the lifestyle they think we should. In the bone passage Peter is encouraging believers to counter hostility not through argument but through the strength of their character and deeds. 

When Christ brought the world His teachings, He set us free from free from sin and the constraints of the Mosaic Law. However, this freedom should not be seen as an excuse to engage in sinful behavior (“a cover-up for evil”). In Matthew 22:37-38, Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. Peter explains in 1 Peter 2:16 that freedom should lead to living as “bondservants of God.” True freedom, according to Peter, is found in willingly submitting to God’s authority and living in accordance with His will. And Jesus tells us in Matthew 22:39-40 that His will is to “love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” 

Christians are called to live lives that testify to their faith, even in the face of criticism or opposition, using good works to show the truth of their beliefs. The Bible offers extensive guidance on living a life that bears witness to faith in God, emphasizing both words and actions as key components of a witnessing life. Matthew 5:14-16 tells us that we “are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” By living our lives in a way that reflects God’s love, truth, and goodness to the world, we can draw others to Him through good works and faithful living. John 13:34-35 tells us that Jesus gave us a new commandment to “love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” 

First Peter 3:15 tells us to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” In living a life that is pleasing to God, we are to do good without complaint or expecting praise. Paul wrote in Philippians 2:14-15, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” Christian freedom means we should express ourselves through service to God and others, not through selfishness or moral compromise. Considering the recent election that showed how far many Americans who would claim to be Christian have rejected the life that God’s commands us. They voted for selfish reasons and made compromised their morals to follow a man who proclaimed hate and exclusion. God encourages us to live with integrity and purpose, to align our actions with God’s will and showing the world what it means to serve Him faithfully. 

The national anthem of the United States refers to our country as the “land of the land of the free and home of the brave.” Jesus set us free but also gave us responsibilities to have this freedom. The Bible speaks extensively about the balance between freedom and responsibility, emphasizing that true freedom is found in Christ and is meant to be exercised responsibly in service to God and others. Here are key principles: John 8:36 tells us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” True freedom comes through Jesus, who liberates believers from the bondage of sin, guilt, and spiritual death. This freedom is not merely about doing as one pleases but about living in alignment with God’s will. 

Likewise, Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Christian freedom is not a license for selfishness or sin but a call to selfless service, motivated by love for others. I honestly believe that Americans have strayed from this commandment of God. On the Day of Judgement, we will all be judge by God for how we lived our lives. I try my best to live a life that is pleasing to God because Romans 14:12 tells us, “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” We are responsible for our actions and decisions, knowing we will answer to God for how we the freedom He gave us. 

In the recent election, many people forgot that 1 Corinthians 8:9 warns us: “But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.” Christians have the freedom to make personal choices, but they must consider how their actions affect others, especially fellow believers. Love should guide the use of freedom. However, many people chose to vote against what God commands us to do and considered only themselves and not how their vote will affect others. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:19, “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.” We should follow Paul’s example Paul used his freedom to serve others and advance the Gospel, showing that Christian freedom is a call to mission and sacrifice. 

The Bible teaches that freedom and responsibility are inseparable. True freedom is found in Christ, and it empowers us to live holy lives, serve others in love, and glorify God. Rather than indulging in selfishness, we are called to use our freedom responsibly by considering its impact on others and aligning our actions with God’s purposes. In conclusion, 1 Peter 2:15-16 emphasizes that God’s will is for us to live upright lives, doing good to silence the ignorance of our critics. While Christ set us free from sin, this freedom should not be used as an excuse for sinful behavior but as an opportunity to serve God faithfully. We should balance between freedom with responsibility, by living in a way that honors God and reflects His message. Many in the LGBTQ+ have abandoned their faith because the leaders of their church did not practice the commandment that we are to live a life that shows love and kindness. Those church leaders abandoned the responsibilities they were given to teach the Gospel in a way that restricts the freedoms of others. 

I try to live my life in a way that at the end of this life, I can say as Timothy said in 2 Timothy 4:7 that “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”