The Christmas season is not always “the most wonderful time of the year” for many people. To the contrary, this season can often be filled with very tragic and painful memories, or present realities. Yet whatever our past or current circumstances may be, the “inexpressible joy” (1 Pet. 1:6-9) found in Jesus Christ is real and soul-satisfying.
I encourage you to give a listen to this 10-minute podcast from Heath Lambert, Executive Director of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors: My Personal Journey to Joy at Christmas. Dr. Lambert’s thoughts are both convicting and helpful.
Beloved, not only does Christ call us to follow Him as our all-sufficient Shepherd (1 Pet. 2:21-25), but we have the privilege of proclaiming His excellencies to lost and hurting people all around us. The baby born in Bethlehem is the crucified, risen, and exalted Lord and Savior! And He speaks, even through us, these words of hope and promise for all who would hear and believe on Him:
28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Mt. 11:28-30)
Because Christ lives, and is returning,
Greg