My dear friends,

Some people think I didn’t grow up with Christmas since we certainly did very little with it in the synagogue. But actually, because my father had a toy store, I was brought up on Christmas. The whole family worked—selling toys, wrapping them, counting up our stuffed cash register. “What a friend we had in Jesus!”

I know I told you that year last year but apart from the original in the Book of Luke, it’s my favorite Christmas story.

Last Christmas I wrote this thank-you letter to far fewer people, watching us on far fewer stations. ZOLA LEVITT LIVE was out of funds and we had to go into reruns in January. We were stuck in the old shows until August! What a discouragement that was—seven months without making a single new show.

But I asked you for help and you responded. We were careful with your gifts and we have been able to run new shows right through the Fall. Even better, it appears at this time that we might be able to keep on coming with the new shows right through the Spring, just like the networks do. Thank you for that. You just don’t know how we appreciate it!

Our biggest problem in 1981 will be greatly increased costs. We now have up to 20 weekly showings throughout the 50 states (and even an occasional overseas viewer with the machinery to pick up our satellite transmission). But all this has run up our bills.

But here’s the message of this Christmas—
Don’t give to us unless that is truly God’s will for you.

I’m very serious. There are worthwhile ministries that are struggling, as we were struggling last Christmas. They need help at this time. We are always in need, but right now we can see ahead and we would rather know that our brothers and sisters in need are being taken care of.

And also, if you are personally poor, buy your family or yourself something this Christmas instead of sending your gift money to us. We’d like to know that we have helped you as you have helped us.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. And stay tuned!

We love you,