People often travel from one end of the country to the other to be with family during the Christmas season. Christmas celebrations with family are meant to strengthen the bonds of love and caring as together we remember God’s unfailing love and care for each person. However, for many of us, memories that trouble our hearts begin to surface as we anticipate these family gatherings. Our comfort level goes down as we think about things that happened to us in the past. God’s desire is that we think of Christmas in a different way this year.
GOD made my life complete when I placed all the pieces before him. When I got my act together, he gave me a fresh start. Now I’m alert to GOD’s ways; I don’t take God for granted. Every day I review the ways he works; I try not to miss a trick. I feel put back together, and I’m watching my step. GOD rewrote the text of my life when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes. (Psalm 18:20-24 MSG)
Jesus came to earth to pay the penalty for the world’s sin which includes ours. The penalty for sin is death. Jesus died a cruel death so that our sins could be forgiven and our relationship with God restored. When we repent of our sin and accept that Jesus paid with His life for our sin, we will choose not to withhold forgiveness of others who sinned against us. God’s grace has been freely poured out on us, so we have ample supply to generously grace others with the grace we have received from Him.
The birth of Jesus truly was the dawn of redeeming grace! The famous carol “Silent Night” speaks of this in the lyrics: Silent night, Holy night. Son of God, Loves pure light. Radiant beams from thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace. Jesus Lord at thy birth. Jesus Lord at thy birth.
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. (2 Thessalonians 3:16 NLT)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, As I prepare for Christmas and family gatherings, I ask you to fill my heart with Your love so that, together with others, I can celebrate Christmas well. Amen
Audio for CHRISTMAS COMFORT AND REDEEMING GRACE
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