Christmas is an incredible journey about change; it's a time to reflect on how Christ's coming into the world ushered in a new and exciting season. Isaiah 8 speaks of the gloom and darkness of the time, but then suddenly, Isaiah 9 starts with these incredible words: "Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress...The people walking in darkness have seen a great light...For to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders..." "Nevertheless" is an exciting hope-filled word of how the spontaneity of Christ coming on the scene would change things dramatically, disrupting the religious status quo. This Christmas let the word 'nevertheless' be on the minds of every CHP member and supporter as we anticipate a move of God in this great nation of Canada. From the Christian Heritage Party's conception in 1986, through its marathon of twenty-three years of building against a backdrop of political leaders oblivious to where they are leading our country, we are preparing for the day of the 'nevertheless'--and I believe it is not far off. Regardless of what the polls have indicated, regardless the criticism, and regardless the numbers of times you have heard other Christians tell you that "you will never win," let Isaiah 9:3 be your reminder that this is the season in which we will reap if we faint not. Isaiah 9:4 says that God wants to take the yoke off our neck and break the enemy's stronghold. So, let's refuse to go through another season bound-up. He came so that we can have change, so let there be joy! Isaiah 61 says He will provide, "the oil of gladness instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair...Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance." Don't let the words of John Lennon's song "Happy Christmas" be in your journals in December 2011. "So this is Christmas, and what have you done, another year over, and a new one just begun." Rather, with great joy and anticipation expect the 'nevertheless,' because it's time! Christmas was and is an incredible journey about change, so a change within us, change within our Party and change within the people of this nation must be expected. Because to His glory, and by His leading, we prepare the way for a better Government: "And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end." Isaiah 9:6-7