Thursday, December 25, 2014

Advent Devotional, December 25

I John 4:7-12
 
“God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him.”
(I John 4:9)
 
The contents of Christmas gifts are revealed in many ways.  Pretty paper is unwrapped, gift bags and the tissue paper than fills them are sifted through, envelopes are opened to reveal gift cards or money, and if you watch many car commercials during the holidays, big red bows adorn the roofs of expensive automobiles that magically appear in the driveway.  Holiday treasures are revealed in many different ways.
 
In Bethlehem, God’s great gift of Christmas was revealed in a small child, wrapped in cloths, lying in a manger.  Mary and Joseph were beside him when the shepherds wandered in, having been invited by the angels to come and see this great joy given for all people.  God’s love was revealed among us in this way.
 
Many Christmas packages are opened and soon forgotten.  God’s love is revealed in the Christ-child who becomes for all who will receive him, the One through whom we live.  Open your heart anew this Christmas to find God’s love revealed in the Christ of Bethlehem. 
 
Prayer: We receive anew the gift of Christmas, dear God.  May others see this love revealed in us today, and every day. Amen.
 
Jim Abernathy
 

Thanks for joining me on this Advent journey.  God’s richest blessings to you on this very special day.  May you know the joy of Christmas, and the assurance of God’s gracious hand to guide your steps in the coming year.  

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