Seeing Christmas
During this Advent season, I have tried to move slowly through the days. Often that hasn’t been possible because we are in the midst of some rather trying circumstances. But even with all the busyness, it is possible to slow my heart and capture the special moments of Christmas all around me.
I love all the beautiful decorations – bright lights shining into the darkness. The glow of candlelight and the promises contained in gaily wrapped presents. The programs and special music and children’s faces filled with wonder.
When I look at Christmas through Jesus’ eyes, I find miracles all around me in the lives He has touched with the gift of His own life. I see Him in my husband, delivered from alcoholism and drugs many many years ago, face radiating the joy and peace of His presence.
He is there in the lives of those whose testimonies cause the tears to course down our cheeks – lives changed in dramatic ways. The chains of bondage have been broken, and they walk in the freedom of forgiven sin.
I see Him in the face of a friend who suffered abuse at the hands of a broken father – a face filled with the love that comes from knowing He is loved by a Father who will never hurt him in any way. His life changed dramatically from one of bitterness and isolation to one of gentle compassion and giving heart.
I see Him in the life of a young man saved while serving time in prison – now serving as the Pastor of a little church. His passion for the Savior pouring out in grateful service.
The One whose birth we celebrate knew before the beginning of time itself that He would one day leave heaven to come and rescue us. He saw each life, each desperate heart, and deemed them worthy of the sacrifice He was willing to make on their behalf. I see Him, the glorious Lord of lords, in the face of that tiny baby cradled in the arms of a young girl. I see Him as a young man, as He stepped into earthly time and announced His ministry:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.”
Luke 4:18,19
Blessed Christmas,
Linda
Your see well, dear Linda. He walks amongst us.
Blessed Christmas to you also Linda….I am sad to hear you have in a time of difficult circumstances,
Praying God will bless you in and through the times of trial and knowing you….you will be looking for Him everywhere….as you do 🙂 He who seeks, finds.
I enjoy your posts very much.
Blessings from New Zealand,
Mary,
What a powerful message, Linda. Yes, Jesus can change lives if we let Him work in our heart.
Merry, merry Christmas sweet friend.
I love to hear the stories of those who are trophies of God’s grace. Thank you for sharing!
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