Merry Christmas

This is a time of year when the emotional roller coaster is running full speed ahead. It doesn't stop. People experience feelings of joy, gladness, depression and madness. All of these are produced by our current experiences and situations. On this day (Christmas Day) I want to encourage everyone to change your thinking for a few moments.

Our current experiences and situations should not be the overpowering influence in our attitude and outlook. Something that happened a long time ago should be the experience that directs our thoughts. A long time ago in Bethlehem a baby was born. He was a promised child: Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

The promise of a son (God with us) was fulfilled and offers us hope today (see Luke 2 w/emphasis on verse 12). The angel of the Lord declared good tidings of great joy then and such joy is still available. The angel and the hosts of Heaven praised God saying peace on earth good will toward men. That was not a temporary promise. You and I can experience peace today.

Some might ask how is it possible to experience peace today with the mess we find ourselves in. The peace declared by the hosts of Heaven is a peace that doesn't come from those around us. It comes from within. It is produced only by the baby who laid in a manger and when He was grown He died, was buried and rose again. You who are saved by grace have a duty as a believer to show good will toward men. Jesus Christ offers peace that passes all understanding to those who will trust in promises given to believers.

While the world around us continues as they are today, Christmas Day, may we who believe in the Christ pause and remember He really does offer peace to those who will trust Him and embrace Him by faith. Whatever your situation is today remember Christ offers peace, rest and eternal life. These far outweigh the burden of temporary emotions. Let us all remember to celebrate the promise fulfilled when; And she (Mary) brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn (Luke 2:7).