Saturday, December 20, 2014

Advent Devotional, December 20

James 1:19-21
 
“…everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to grow angry.”
(James 1:19b)
 
We would all like to believe that the Christmas season brings out our best.  Certainly there seems to be an emphasis on peace and good will throughout the holidays, and there are all kinds of stories, even movies made that reinforce this theme.  Truth is, however, the rush and pressures of these days sometimes sharpen our tongues and shorten our tempers. 
 
James’ words are appropriate in every season, but perhaps no more appropriate than in the rush and hurry of Christmas.  Quick to listen…slow to speak…slow to grow angry; that’s a formula we would do well to embrace when standing in a long check-out line at the mall, trying to find a parking place at the grocery store, or when out of town guests overstay their welcome.  These are opportunities to let the light of Christ shine. 
 
Jesus words are helpful here as he says in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine so that others can see your good works and glorify your father who in in heaven.”  That may well be the best gift you offer this Christmas season.
 
Prayer:  Lord, help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to grow angry. Help me, Lord, to be more like Christ. Amen.
 
Jim Abernathy

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