Love Came Down at Christmas
Key Verse to Read and Treasure
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God because God is love—I John 4:7-8 (ESV)
For Insight
Do you ever wish the sentiments that are expressed and felt at Christmas could be with us always? People seem to be happier, better, more generous with their well-wishes and extending blessings. Sure, you can run into a few bah humbugs but for the most part there is a kinder spirit everywhere you go. Unfortunately, that caring spirit disappears as soon as January 2nd appears on the calendar.
When Jesus came to earth, he did not descend into a “Christmas” spirit or loving environment. People were doing and being who they always were. Governments were not running smoothly. The wellbeing of the citizens was not considered. Certain people groups were oppressed, and the poor were the last to receive consideration. Vendors in the marketplace were using faulty scales, cheating their customers, and even the Church managed to place heavy loads on people. Jesus entered at a time love was only an emotion and not a way of life or core value to live by.
The love of Christ is a central element of Christian belief and theology. Jesus came as perfect love to live among imperfect people. His love was not experienced through sentiments or emotions but was displayed through acts of love which culminated with the singular act that won our salvation and gave us liberty over eternal death and sin.
Because Jesus was/is love and spread his love abroad, even when he ascended into heaven love remained. Love lives and shines through all who make love more than sentiments or emotions, it exists and is experienced through those who practice grace, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, and generosity.
Jesus, like the Father, you are love. Let us become love that keeps on living and giving more than one season more than one day, but all year round. Amen
Christmas Mindfulness
How will you practice and spread the kind of love Jesus brought at Christmas beyond Christmas?
Devotionally Yours 