Home For The Holidays

Scripture:  II Corinthians 5:8 - We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.

The holiday season brings on so many emotions. This joyous time of the year can also be a season of heartache, pain and grief due to the passing of a loved one. Coronavirus has taken the grieving process to a whole new level. We aren’t able to gather, hug, physically touch each other in a socially – distanced environment. It’s difficult to really explain but I’m sure you all understand where I’m coming from.

Our hope must be in/stay in the Lord! He is our Strength, He is truly our Savior! Born just to die, He took upon Himself the sins of the whole world … and He did it for each one of us. Jesus came in the humblest way – lying in a manger in a stable, a place for animals with no modern-day amenities. Once His earthly work was complete, the Father took Him back to His rightful place – seated at His (God’s) right hand. That’s one way we can encourage ourselves when we start to remember our loved ones who have gone on before us – their earthly work was done, it was time for them to rest from labor to reward!

But just think, they are doing the things we’ve been singing about for years – they are praising our Savior all the day long! Can you imagine that? ‘Round the clock praise & worship, non-stop! AND they get to celebrate our King’s birthday in Heaven! I wonder what it’s like there … what’s it like celebrating Christmas in glory?? Although it’s difficult celebrating the holidays without our dearest family and friends who are no longer with us, one thing’s for sure – they are in good company!

If we have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, we can rest assured that when our Father calls us home, He has a place there waiting just for us, HALLELUJAH!! And someday we too will be Home for the holidays.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the memories of Christmas – past, present and future. Thank You that You continue to be faithful, loving and kind toward us even in our most unlovable moments! Only You could do what no man could do! Only You could show us Your Love by sending Your only begotten Son to die in our place – glory to Your Name, God!! Thank You for taking such good care of us and our loved ones – those here on earth and in Heaven. We know we can trust You … You made all of us and You know all about us! Thank You for the future and the hope You have for us and our lives. And thank You for preparing our place with You as You have done for those who are already in Your Presence. In Jesus’ Name we always pray … Amen!!

(by Cassaundra Turner)