REWRAPPING THE CHRISTMAS GIFT?

December 5th, 2024

SCRIPTURE: "Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart... 6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us." 2 Corinthians 4:1, 6-7

What makes for the most memorable Christmas? Thinking about Christmas past and what made it special. My reflections take me to thoughts of family gatherings, and time spent with friends, of seasonal music, snow, and time off from school... and of course I cannot forget the gifts and the abundance of food favorites while visiting one home to the next, as well as the goods from our own kitchen. The aromas and the sounds linger richly. In the center of all this is the beautiful and marvelously evolved Christmas tree. The earthy and scraggly tree turned heavenly with a little effort, and with a bit of electricity it boasts the liveliest of lights.

Such is our own transformation, as we become illumined by the presence of God, through faith, by grace. Our darkness meeting light, is ended by that light, and that is a beautiful thing, a 'wonderful change'. This treasure in earthen vessels is the light of God in Christ. Hallelujah! And for this we do not lose heart. Merry Christmas. Emanuel, God with us. Santa aside, Jesus is the reason for the season.

PRAYER: Most gracious and holy Lord, and our eternal Father, thank You for our eternal dawn by way of radical mercy. Thank You for those sent ones whose lives touched our own in special ways, those who offered us the seed of the gospel by which our salvation is sprouted. Thank You for that lifesaving love which uplifts us gloriously, while we were yet sinners. The best Christmas gift defies being wrapped. It is the love of God. Bless You Jesus. Amen.
By Dea. McNeal Brockington