We are only days away from Christmas and I love the spirit of Christmas. The music, decorations, and the festive lights. At the time of year, people are nicer and full of joy. Oh, and did I mention Hallmark binging by the fireplace.
However, there’s another side to this special season. Some of us remember the loss of loved ones and we feel their void in our lives. Today allow me to challenge you to the Hallmark Perspective. When we hear Hallmark, we think of the cards that encourage others and hope-filled movies that inspire us.
Hallmark is defined as distinctive, especially for excellence. In a noun tense, it is defined as a mark stamped on articles of gold, silver, or platinum. In Britain, certifying their standard of purity. How ironic is it the birth of Jesus, was honored with treasures simply because he was the promise the world needed, a symbol of purity and more than any precious metal on the earth?
Matthew 2:9-11;“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. In coming, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and bowed in worship. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
Christmas was never intended to be replaced by debt, loneliness, or longing. Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the promise of our redeemer, and to give hope in the present moment and the future. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
I challenge you this year to honor the real reason for the season, with a heart of joy and expectation. Allow God to fill the void in this season and renew your joy!
God, touch the heart of the readers of this prayer. Stir a joy in each heart and soul unto good works. Allow the voids to be filled with sweet memories and souls to be healed. God, thank you in advance for giving, filling, and guiding us with hope and unexplainable joy. In Jesus name.
LAKM - Save the Dates:
January 8, 2022 - Budgeting
Febuary 5, 2022 - Food is Love (virtual cooking)
March 12, 2022 - Performance/Annual Review Preparation
Comments