Publisher's Note:

Even as we try to instill hope among us despite the continuing challenges in our lives, we look at the Christmas celebration in an ever new light to draw from its grand narrative. The events of our lives today assault us even as they give us some reasons to be joyful as well, in that bundle of contradictions we hardly know but now must know. 

Christmas is simple enough to be drowned elsewhere; it is a message of redemption, it is a message of renewal of our life, and it is a message of hope springing eternal.

At the rate the economy is going, can we ever truly celebrate Christmas? If we equate the holiday season with what money can buy, then, the season augurs gloom and not enjoyment, hopelessness and not a belief in life.

Whatever the situation is, the many others would let the water roll off their back and look at this season as the time to rejoice because it commemorates the coming of the Saviour.

What is the significance of this most celebrated holiday season of all times?

Apostle Luke recorded the first Christmas in Luke 2:9-10 and foretold by the prophet Isaiah in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible.

This is how God showed His love to us—by sending His Son Jesus Christ to be incarnated among us. Jesus is the perfect role model for everyone. He is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness. When we exhibit and experience His attributes, for me, that is the real meaning of Christmas.

The material gifts we receive this holiday season are temporal compared to the eternal gift of salvation Jesus is giving to everyone. 

He is the reason for the season!

On behalf of the staff of Fil-Am OBSERVER, I’m extending my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to our readers, contributors and most especially to our advertisers for making the newspaper a reality. We are committed to continue serving the Filipino-American community and the larger community as well.

A blessed Christmas to all of us! May the peace of Christ reign in all our hearts.

Aloha and Mabuhay!