Day 22: Sunday, December 24

Day 22: by Juno Smalley

Merry Christmas! May this song, A Christmas Alleluia speak profoundly to you heart of the reality that Christ has come for the world and you today.  

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.”   John 3:16

Today’s candle represents Love. In this season of preparing our hearts to celebrate God with us. Today’s verse reminds us of the love we and the entire world can receive from God.

Christmas:
  • the day that brings fresh, personal meaning to the incarnation of our creator God. 
  • A day that reminds us that we are all called to be on mission to let our light shine amid fears and questions. 
  • A day when many people try to focus on the gift of Jesus versus the absence of a loved one.

Today is a day that many people anticipate for days, weeks, and months (if not the entire year). In a way, this season just might be ‘the happiest time of the year,’ not because of the things we have, but because of what the presents we receive from the presence of Jesus in Hope, Joy, Peace and Love, that remind us of the deeper meaning of life that is found in Jesus. Today, be intentional in finding a few moments to reflect on the Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love that only Jesus can bring.

As you know, the more we can stay focused on the presence of Jesus, the more we can manage our expectations about this holiday we call Christmas. Let's remember Jesus is Joy to the World and the one who brings peace, a peace that passes all understanding to our hearts.

I sincerely hope that you can join us today for our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service (it really is beautiful) either at 10 am or 1 pm.  If you can’t be here, then join us online Live.nl-cc.org.

In our desire to get the most from Christmas, in the hopes of our faith not being hijacked by things and wants, I’m reminded it all comes down to my heart and my mindset. It’s me, and it’s you, who needs to make room for Jesus on this Holy Night. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Romans 15:13

Here is a blessing that I pray over you as you spend time with family and friends. Be a blessing to someone today…The Blessing.

Closing thoughts…
I hope you have found these Christmas Reflections helpful as you prepare your heart for Christmas. What have you found most helpful from this experience? You can share your feedback by clicking here. (AdventFeedback@nl-cc.org)

UPCOMING TIMES:
Christmas Eve: 10AM or 1:00PM.  
December 31st we will return to our normal schedule of 10:00 (both in-person and video).  Live.nl-cc.org

Thank you again for joining us during this Christmas Reflection.