Christmas: a Time of Hope and Love
Christmas is a time of hope.
When the father of John the Baptist prophesied, he said in part:
because of the tender mercy of our God,
whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.” [1]
The “sunrise” is Jesus.
These three things came with Christ. But they are still available.
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [2]
This is one of my favorite passages in all the Bible. This passage promises that every child of God can be completely free of anxiety and will be filled with peace. If you belong to Christ, then you need never have a troubled mind. Ever! Then why do some disciples still experience it? It is because they have a doubt about this promise (or, maybe unfamiliar with the promise…but now every reader knows!). We must trust God that he will take care, fully care, of every matter we bring before him. Believe it and live!
So, Christmas is a time of hope. But Christmas is also a time of love. Consider Joseph.
Joseph loved Mary.
Joseph loved Mary and he loved Jesus.
Christmas is a time of love. Mary loved the Lord.
And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation. [3]
Christmas is a time of love. God loves us, if we belong to Christ.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. [4].
A very familiar verse. Let’s not forget that it reveals God’s love for us.
Christmas speaks of love…
This time of year, let us experience God’s love for us in a greater way. Let us love Him more. And, love one another more. Tell someone that you love them.
Why stop when the season is over? Continue hoping and continue loving once Christmas is past. All the days of your life.
[1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Lk 1:78–79). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
[2] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Php 4:6–7). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
[3] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Lk 1:46–50). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
[4] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Jn 3:16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.