Presents and Jesus: Finding the True Treasure of Christmas — By Pastor Jared

Peppermint lattes, presents, ornaments, santa movies, tinsel, chocolate, and family gatherings are great, but why stop there? Christmas gets much…much better! Underneath the sparkly and fragrant surface of Christmas traditions lies something uniquely magnificent. It’s Jesus of course! But why is Jesus so worthy of celebration? I’m glad you asked! 

There are two ways to celebrate Jesus. The first way is to adore Jesus Himself. He is the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6-7)
 Knowing Him personally is a splendid blessing. The second way is to appreciate Jesus’ work. He brings “peace, justice, and righteousness” to a restless, corrupt, and chaotic world (Isaiah 9:6-7). He rights wrongs and mends what has been broken. In short, Jesus is good, and Jesus does good.

Let's enjoy our mochas, candy canes, and presents this December and cherish the true treasure of Christmas. Jesus is mighty, wonderful, everlasting and peaceful, and a tenacious worker of justice!

Merry Christmas everybody! 

With Much Love and Hope,

Jared Gallardo

PS. Rianna and I are really looking forward to celebrating our first Christmas at Washington Cathedral this year. We hope you can join us on Christmas Eve for our Online Service that will be broadcast at 12 noon on 12/24 on Facebook Live, You Tube Live, www.wacathedral.org or on the WaCath App (IOS and Android). (The service will be available “on demand” at all four locations anytime Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and beyond.)