25 Days 2 Christmas - Hope

"...you will not grieve like people who have no hope." (1 Thessalonians 4:13b)

Christmas Eve. The weeks of planning, waiting and anticipating is over. The time to celebrate is here. 

It is, however, a bittersweet time for many. Family and friends who were with us last Christmas are gone from the family table. Relationships that once were are now no more. Changes in work, health and home add extra stress. So in the midst of the smiles, there is sadness. 

Ironic isn't it, that in this time of high celebration we become keenly aware of these harsh realities.   How do we respond? Initial reactions are predictable: fear, denial and a desire to simply run away. But we can never run fast or far enough from the darkness that hovers around the edges of our lives. 

Jesus' arrival in Bethlehem gives me a word that shines light in the midst of this darkness: that word is hope. 

Jesus' arrival tells me there is more to life than just this life. For those who say, "This life is all we've got!", I look at that babe in the manger and say, "But His presence tells me there is more - way more!"

Jesus birth tells me God keeps His promises. The coming of the Messiah had been promised from long ago. From the prophet Isaiah we hear, "For a child is born to us...And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

It is a wonderful life. For that we give thanks. But it is also a hard life. We grieve because of our sin, brokenness, evil, tough circumstances and death. But listen to what the angels are announcing! “Don’t be afraid! I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Saviour—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem." (Luke 2:10-11)

In Christ we have hope in the face of whatever comes our way. Remember this as you celebrate His birth.

Prayer: Thank God for Jesus who gives us a living hope!. Amen.

Gift to others: When an opportunity presents itself, share the hope you have in Christ.