Missing The Meaning

 Christmas decorations have been up for weeks.  We don’t know what that will look like this year with pandemic restrictions impacting businesses and our own personal movements.  In the past malls often prepared a winter wonderland, a special "North Pole" room for Santa to greet his friends.  In some places a nativity scene with figures of Mary and Joseph, some shepherds, and the baby Jesus might also have been displayed.  Even during this very different season, perhaps especially at this time, it’s good to pause to remember the true reason for the season.

 So many people, and perhaps even we ourselves, are so pre-occupied as Christmas approaches that we ignore Jesus.  Some are exhausted by the demands of the season and others struggle with loneliness.  Some of us may be preoccupied with shame and guilt about being in a position in life where we are distant from our family, or perhaps financially unable to provide for our kids. 

 In those days and at that time I will raise up a righteous descendant from King David’s line.  He will do what is just and right throughout the land. (Jeremiah 33:15 NLT)

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of Jesus to the world.  Help me to stop fretting about things and truly celebrate Jesus, for He is Immanuel, God with us.  Amen

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