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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