NIGHT OF NIGHTS

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11 (KJV)

"Unto you . . ." yes, you too . . . and me . . . and all of us, a Savior is born. Think of all the things we’ve said and done, as individuals and as humankind. There is nothing in us that has the power to make all the ills right or turn our deeds around. But, God sent his son into a world of pain and suffering, so that all those who believe in him, shall not perish but have everlasting life. Ever lasting! We will have his peace and joy that will fill us like the Christmas star, sending out beams of love to all we meet. The most wonderful part of the gift is . . . everlasting starts now.

Too often we reject his gift—glad tiding of great joy—because we believe those are blessings of heaven and we should not expect them here on earth. When we receive the Christ Child of Bethlehem, we step into the Joy of the Lord at that moment. Come, receive the babe in the manger, drink in the fragrance of the straw and warm yourself in starlight. For unto all of us is born a Savior, Christ the Lord. Let us pray:

"Dear Lord and father of us all, we bow before your holy name. You are more wonderful than wonder and more glorious than glory and yet we choose not to see you or receive the gift of peace you give us through your son, the Prince of Peace. For this day, in the hours that lead up to the wonder of wonders—the silent night, the holy night—prepare our hearts that we may be prepared to inhale the sweetness of your love today. May this Christmas be our first Christmas in your kingdom here on earth. May this be the year that Christmas comes to everyone. If we can be of use in any way, we yield to your leading and will follow the star into your service. Forgive us for the many times we have focused on Santa rather than saints, when we have wanted more and more when, through you, we have had everything. Let this Christmas be the time we finally have the courage to lift the Christ Child in our arms and claim him as our child, as we are his. In the name of Jesus, whose birth we celebrate, we pray. Amen

Doris
"God gives us stories that testify to His love. Let me tell you mine."
Copyright 2012 Doris Gaines Rapp