Manna for Your Morning

Christmas is one word that embodies so many things. It conjures up different images and emotions for each one of us. Reflecting on what 3 words I would use to say what Christmas is all about. #1 CHRIST It all starts with the birth of Jesus, the long awaited Messiah. John 1:41 says, Andrew first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). May we find Christ in every moment of our day. Jesus said, “ I am with you always, even to the end of the age. ” — Matthew 28:20b (NKJV) #2 LOVE  Christmas exemplifies the love God has for us. What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it—we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. — 1 John 3:1a  (MSG) When we understand we are children of a God who is love, we know how we ought to flow... in LOVE. #3 GIVE  The most perfect gift God gave to us was Himself, in the form of Jesus (God with us). Jesus continually gave of Himself, healin...

Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. — James 4:8 (NLT) With the flurry of activity that comes during the Christmas season, remember to draw near to God and abide in Him. When we draw near to God, He draws near to us. He is good and He does good. The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation. (Psalm 145:9) His nearness is our good. As long as we continually draw near to our Heavenly Father, we are good. And if we wander off...  The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. (Psalm 25:8) But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do . — Psalm 73:28 (NLT)

“Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.” — Psalm 46:10 (AMP) Are you going to get caught up in the busyness of “doing” Christmas (process) or be still and know our great God (purpose)? In the midst of all the decorating, baking and party-going, may we take time out to be still and exalt God. Thank our heavenly Father for sending His only Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Recognize and celebrate all He has done for us. It’s in the stillness that we are able to hear His voice. When we are still, and give our attention to Him, we can clearly see the answers we seek. In the stillness, we are captivated by His love! Delight yourself in His Presence.

And she gave birth to her Son, her Firstborn; and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room or place for them in the inn. — Luke 2:7 (AMP) In all of our Christmas shopping and Christmas party going, may we make room for Jesus in our lives. Don't leave Jesus outside, knocking on the door of your heart. Open the door and invite Him in! Let us ensure He has first place in ou r hearts. Christmas is all about Him— Immanuel, “God with us.” For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). In Him was life, and the life was the light of men (John 1:4). He was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world (John 1:9). Celebrate the birth of Jesus by giving Him preeminence (first place in everything), in your life.

For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11 (NKJV) Let’s not do Christmas today. May we BE Christmas, not just today, but each and every day God gives us breath. Be love . Be patient and kind . Let us be givers, like Jesus. Give forgiveness and grace . Embody the spirit of Christ. Always be filled with peace and joy . Merry Christmas!