A Christmas to Remember

Christmas time gives our families reason to congregate. That congregation brings lots of laughter, hugs, and memories to be stored for the coming year. The children play and laugh. What joy to see the children playing and having fun. What a joy to see my family again and get to talk to them. We get to sit down together and share a wonderful meal of fellowship.

My own family will meet this Monday for Christmas festivities, eating, hugs, laughter, and making of memories as we again celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. My sister, Mary, had her celebration yesterday after waking up to a White Christmas. Three of her four children were able to make it along with their families. The house was full. Another sister, Eleanor, was also able to be here. Once again the Christmas Story was read from Luke and we sang Silent Night. It just would not be Christmas without that.

Christmas is a time for love to abound. Since the Great Lover of our soul has taught us what great love means, we, Christians now have more understanding of loving others. That does not mean we always get it right. It means we understand love a little better and we share it a little better. In my life I suppose I have tried to love but will never get it right this side of heaven.

Christmas is also a time to reflect on memories of our families. This is a picture of my dad and mom with my three sisters. Our Christmas celebration in days gone by were so happy. Our aunt and uncle also were part of those happy times. How was I so blessed to be raised in a Christian home and be born in a country so great? How have I been so blessed to have such great children of my own? And grandchildren? And nieces and nephews? And sisters so dear? And my friends, my wonderful friends?

My Bible readings for yesterday painfully reminded me of something going on in our great land right now. In Proverbs 29:10 it says, "The bloodthirsty hate blameless people." In this present time and for ages past, Satan has been the father of bloodthirsty people and they hate the children of God. The enemy seeks to destroy Christmas. As late as 40 years ago we saws signs saying Merry Xmas. Today nativity scenes are banned on public property. Even the innocent baby Jesus is not welcomed by haters of God. Furthermore, Crosses, Bibles, and prayer are not welcome in the public square. This is a great time of year but, at the same time a great rift is forming.

Not only is Christmas a time to celebrate the birth of Christ, it is a time to think of why He came to this world. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost." (Luke 19:10 NLT) Now, this is really what upsets those who live in darkness and follow their father, the Devil.

Remember, even it this time of love and laughter, we are in a battle. We are reminded, Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8 NLT) Keep your families close. Love deeply, hug slowly, and always pray for your families and loved ones. Remember your friends in your prayers and all of your own clan. We are living in exciting times because the return of Jesus is near. Yes it is exciting but also perilous.


The prayer of the psalmist is Psalms 83 is appropriate.

A song. A psalm of Asaph. O God, do not be silent! Do not be deaf. Do not be quiet, O God. Don't You hear the uproar of Your enemies? Don't You see that Your arrogant enemies are rising up? They devise crafty schemes against Your people; they conspire against Your precious ones.
(Psalms 83:1-3 NLT)

Remember to make each new day special for your loved ones and your friends and finish your Christmas celebrations by loving your friends and family with all your heart. Make 2010 a Christmas to remember. 

Merry Christmas to you all and to all a good night!

Be Blessed and Remember, God loves you and Jesus died for you.
bob