Merry Christmas from Brian and Renee!

Saying “yes” to God isn’t always easy.

Joseph and Mary knew this fact all too well. While the Nativity may rest in our minds as a picturesque scene, the truth is that Jesus’ birth was challenging for his parents.

Mary had to bear the stigma of being an unwed mother, and Joseph had to humble himself to accept this child that wasn’t his… becoming an adoptive dad!

Then, they had to travel more than 90 miles with Mary on the verge of delivery and possibly experiencing labor pains along the way. No palace — or even room — awaited the birth of the infant King, and Mary found herself delivering in a stable.

But we are so grateful they endured the hardship that came with the indescribable gift of being the parents on earth of God’s only son.

We know you have said “yes” to God, too, probably more times than you can count.

Each “yes” might not have worked out exactly how you might have imagined. It may have come with frustration, hardships, and pain. In fact, you may be suffering right now. But we pray you have also enjoyed the inexplicable beauty of the journey and the hope that comes from having a Savior who has even conquered death.

This Christmas, we reflect on how grateful we are that you chose to take the America World journey with us that began on August 1, 1994.

Thank you for every “yes.”

Merry Christmas!

In Christ’s love,

Brian and Renee Luwis
America World Co-Founders

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

— Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)