Christmas is coming. The celebration of the birth of our Savior is just a few weeks away. This year is different for me. While I am looking forward to sharing gifts with my family–I am even more aware of the gift I have already received since that baby, born in Bethlehem so long ago grew up to fulfill His purpose by becoming my Savior.
Now, more than ever am I aware of my need for His saving mercies. What is amazing is that they are so freely given. Available when I/we need them. So many people I know are facing difficult situations right now, in the midst of the bright lights, happy music and commercials which want to convince you that the latest in thing is what we need to live a life of fulfillment. Two of my daughters friends are caring the heavy load of losing their moms soon. People I know are struggling with being the caregiver for their husbands as well as several people are facing their first Christmas without a loved one. Someone I know was just laid off from his job. People in my own family are facing some major decisions. But because that little baby grew up to be our Savior full of power and might, I can trust He has a plan to help in each of these situations.
There is sorrow that covers the earth. See darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Isaiah 60:2. This darkness and sorrow is something that is promised during our lifetime on this earth, but the good news is that Jesus did come and in His coming He brought light to shine in the darkness and show us the through these dark times. As we invite Him to show up and carry our loved ones through their difficult times–leading and guiding them through the waters of difficulty then we see and experience His saving power. Great testimonies do abound. A three year old girl was the victim of a drive by shooting. The bullet hit her in the head–but instead of dying, this little miracle girl named Pressley is proof of God’s grace and power. She is alert, can speak, is learning to walk again and is defying the odds because of prayer to our Savior. Jobs are being found, people’s needs are being met. God is using His people to bring His light into the darkness of difficulties. Comfort is coming through the Comforter and people are reaching out to help the hopeless. His Light is shining.
If you are in a dark and difficult place–I want to encourage you to look to the light. He is there, waiting to help you move through your dark times. If you are walking with those who are in the midst of trouble, look for the Light to be your strength and direction. You may not be able to change the situation for your friends, but you can help them look for the Light and encourage them to look to the Light. There is joy to the world, because the Lord is come. We can rejoice and release our faith for those who need this reminder. It wasn’t easy for Mary and Joseph to travel that distance when she was so pregnant–and have to deal with no place to stay must have been aggravating to say the least, but the Father chose to write His story in some very unique ways. He is writing your story as well. Trust His ending in the midst of the story and these Christmas reminders of carols, lights and even sweet treats will help you move through the darkness and into His marvelous light.
Faith Encounters 