Christmas 2020

​As Christmas approaches, we transition from thankfulness to an anticipation of a new year, an increasing light, a chance to reset and refocus, and most importantly, the coming of our creator to walk among us.  And He came into the world in a way that expresses WHO and HOW He is - through the planting of a seed, the growing something we cannot see, and finally its momentous arrival.  

This year more than ever, we are looking forward to new life, new hope, and a renewed promise.  Last year He planted the ability to glorify Him even in the most difficult of times!  For some of us, we allowed it to grow and He has helped us through it.  Some of us missed the opportunity to nourish and protect it and have suffered more than necessary.  But none in vain!  A new birth approaches!   

This year, he has already planted something in you, something in your family, something in your church and community, and it is the same thing we’ve always needed: God with us!  And we look back with clear hindsight and forward into the blurry future knowing God has promised what He’s already given - and we know how much we need it!  

The same way a husband tells a wife he loves her every day (even though we told her that time when we got engaged and it counts forever!), we have a day every year when God repeats His “I love you” and we ceremoniously receive it!  

We prepare by setting up trees that are ever green, lights that illuminate the darkness, carols that warm hearts, spices and aromas that awaken the senses, ornaments that beautify the ordinary, and surrounding ourselves with symbolism that focuses our mind.  

Please consider taking part in this preparation, even if you’re alone or don’t have family coming in.  Set up things that have particular meaning to you and your hope in God.  Decorate, put up lights, even if you usually don’t!  Look up the meanings and remind yourself every time you see them of the promises God has planted in you!  

And if you are, as many of us will be at one time or another during this time, finding yourself alone - remember, you are not alone and spend that time with Him or with your eyes to the stars looking for His angels.  And if you are, as many of us will be at one time or another, in the midst of others - remember to take time to be alone, treasuring the things God has said in your heart.
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See you at the manger.  SK