Today’s Author: Kory Roe
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you; you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.” (Luke 2:9-14)
As a child, my favorite holiday was Christmas. My siblings and cousins would compete to see who could finish their Swedish meatballs the fastest and be the first one downstairs to divide the presents under the tree. The highlight of the holidays was sitting in amazement as the pile in front of each of us would grow and our eyes would widen with delight.
As a young adult, my focus shifted…just a bit. There was more meaning to Christmas. The Christmas Story was one I looked forward to every year and waited for with great anticipation. My thoughts surrounding gifts also shifted. Instead of being the giddy child, I found great joy in creating the most amazing Christmas experience I could for my precious niece. I am sure all of you parents, grandparents and aunts/uncles can agree- there is no better way to experience the holidays than through the vibrant eyes of a little child.
In a lot of ways, that would be my ask to you in these finals days before Christmas. No more questions to ponder. No more time to reflect on all the coulda-shoula-woulda’s that have accompanied your holiday preparations. I would simply ask that you find a way to revert to your childhood self. Find that joyful, contagious spirit and the twinkle as your eyes sparkle with anticipation, and prepare your heart to receive the greatest gift the world has ever known.
“Mid-week devotions are authored by members of our community. If you are interested in creating a trio of reflections to be shared on an upcoming Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday contact Pastor Peter.“