Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Devotional 12-18-19

Psalm 80: 1-3

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock!  You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh. Stir up your might, and come to save us!  Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

I enjoy the fall and winter seasons.  The majesty of God is easily seen in the changing colors of fall and the beautiful views of fresh fallen snow.  Also, the holiday seasons of the fall and winter are my favorite times of the year.  As with most changes, there are some difficult adjustments to make every year.  As the days become shorter, I enjoy the cooler temperatures, but the increase in darkness can be depressing. The days and weeks after the end of daylight saving time can be especially difficult for me.  Even as I enjoy the holidays, adjusting to events occurring in the darkness of the the evenings instead of the light of spring and summer can be very difficult.

The holiday season is filled with joyful gatherings, festive music, and special meaning.  A season when we all are reminded to give a little more, sharing our gifts, talents and light with others.  Unfortunately, many people continue to be surrounded by darkness. People that do not know the true meaning of the Christmas season and have never felt the love of Jesus.

Throughout the Christmas season, as we read in Psalm 80, we re reminded that God is our shepherd, and his light will save each of us from the darkness.  Each of us can be that light for others in our daily interactions with others.  At any moment, you may be the difference that shows someone the light of God and the true meaning of Christmas that helps to pull someone from the darkness to the light.

Dear God,
Thank you for being our light!  Thank you for sharing your son Jesus with us.  During this holiday season, may your light shine through each of us that others may feel and know your love.
Amen

Hulse Budd

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