One week from today I will get to travel home for the Christmas
holiday.
So to put on a coat, see Christmas lights and Christmas
trees, to hear Christmas music in stores, to drink hot chocolate, these things “feel”
like Christmas time.
For me, living and working in Ethiopia, in 70 degree
weather and largely sunny and blue skies without much variance, it’s exciting
to think about that soon it will feel more like Christmas. (Maybe- if the
weather changes in Ohio….it’s warm there now). This is the only decoration I have up now. ...
Many say Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year
and in so many ways, I have to agree.
People seem more generous as they shop for perfect gifts
for friends and family.
And the reality of the greatest gift ever given
seems more largely in focus- as manger scenes adorn the front lawns of people’s
homes and JESUS is the theme of all major plays and musical productions
at this time.
What is the most wonderful time of the year for you? Is
it Christmas?
Why do people celebrate Christmas or enjoy it?
Is it the presents? The time off work? Or just the
holiday spirit?
Our God came here. Amazing!!!
Every time I see a donkey in my area, I’m incredulous to
think that the God of the universe sat on one of those. That He humbled himself
and entered His own creation, His own story, so a redeemer, a Savior, could be
known, could be embraced.
Jesus came and walked our streets, experienced and battled
the elements, faced temptation, and felt deep in Him the war that rages between
flesh and spirit.
He learned obedience and experienced grief, rejection,
and sacrifice.
He also knew joy and laughter and friendship. He loved
well and served well.
His life, though ending before his 35th
birthday, changed everything for all of us!
He gave all of Himself so we can
live and have our sin paid for!
May we take time in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas
season, to remember the amazing fact… that a Savior was born and still lives to
give us life!
He is our Merciful High Priest
and soon coming King! This is the reason we have to celebrate.
And the greatest
gift we can give to someone else- is the news of Him!
Luke 2:10-11
Do not be
afraid. I bring you good news of great
joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has
been born to you; He is Christ the Lord…
May we celebrate Jesus during this most wonderful time of
the year and every day of our lives!
Remembering Him today and always!
Blessed Christmas and holiday season to each of you!
Prayer Requests… Please Pray….
-for this week- As I give final exams for my Bible theology
students- that the students will finish well- and will take all they learned in
all their classes and continue to follow God’s plan for their lives
-for my Hope College students- as I give mid-term exams
this week and listen to speeches, that God will bless and keep these students
in Him
-for a new business visa and work permit that I need to
push through the Ethiopian Embassy while I’m home- that God will give speed and
favor on that
-for a training this Thursday I’m giving for Hope
fellowship students who are small group leaders, that God will bless this time
-for my travel stateside in one week, for safety in
travel
-for the holidays at home with my family- that God will
bless our time together
-for my sister, now stateside, as she is serves as the
Mission Director at our home church in interim. That God will bless this season
for her and our church.
-for my parents, that we can enjoy the holiday with them,
and for continued health and joy in all they do
-for my way ahead in Ethiopia in the new year, that He will help me make these days the greatest for Him
Thanks so much for your prayers!
Hi
ReplyDeleteAlways awesome blog.
Merry Christmas and Happy new year. Enjoy your holiday.