Christmas Gifts

A Swedish Christmas Gift, Photo by Evalowyn (CC BY 3.0 Unported)

With the last leaf fallen and fields bare, we are confronted by the Christmas season.  In truth, we can hardly avoid it.  Carols blare an invitation to spending orgies.  The Hallelujah Chorus trumpets sales.

There is arguably some precedent for this extended extravagance.  The Wise Men may have traveled as long as two years before reaching their destination.  Throughout, they followed the star.  All to bring birthday gifts.

As Christians, we know, of course, that Jesus was the gift.  The challenge for us, also, is to follow that star; to keep it in sight despite trials and distractions.  It burns brightly still, if we will only choose to see.  He is, after all, the Light of the world.

“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship him” (Matt. 2: 2).

Lord Jesus, we look to You for hope in this sad world of ours. A world where women are beaten or raped, and children murdered in their schools. A world where terror threatens; where millions live under totalitarian rule, and still more struggle for the barest necessities of life.

At this time of year – when we again celebrate the miracle of Your birth – renew and strengthen our faith. You alone can shed light on the darkness which surrounds us.

May we reflect that light, to Your honor and glory. May we proclaim Your birth and Resurrection ever with joy.

Amen

READERS CAN FIND MY VIEWS ON ABUSE AND ABUSE-RELATED ISSUES AT ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse  http://www.avoicereclaimed