Christmas is supposed to be a tim e of spiritual renewal for everyone. After all, we are getting ready to celebrate Jesus’ birthday. But, we have Christmas programs and special services full of people hungry to hear the “Good News.” So, we become tired and cranky from too many events, too many crisis, too much pressure and too little tim e.
Several years ago, I attended a meeting where we spent the day interviewing twelve future ministers. One by one, they were asked to tell how God changed their lives.
- A businesswoman left a thriving career, friends and family to serve three rural churches.
- A counselor attended Bible College in his spare
tim e and is now serving a church part-tim e until he completes his education. - A successful contractor moved his wife and children from a thriving city to a small town.
- A minister’s son who swore he would never follow in dads footsteps…. did!
- A nurse who’s heart warmed by God’s Holy Spirit became involved in spiritual healing.
- A Vietnam veteran who fought and survived while others died dedicated his life to God.
Each minister faced multiple problems of low income, attending school, leading a church, maintaining a family life and trying to spend personal tim e with God. In any other profession this would be a formula for disaster. Yet, they were enthusiastic and full of exuberance about their future and especially about their relationship with God.
What was their secret? How could they be so enthusiastic in the midst of such obstacles?
Peter, surrounded by a crowd, was once asked the same question: “I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in hope. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave. You have shown me the way of life, and you will give me wonderful joy in your presence.” (Acts 2:25-28)
Peter never denies the difficulties life presents, but he makes several important statements:
- The Lord is with me. Knowing God is with you gives purpose and meaning to your life.
- I will not be shaken. Refusing to allow today’s obstacles to overcome your faith.
- My heart is filled with joy. A celebration of God’s continuing love and guidance.
- I have hope. The obstacles will pass or be overcome, but God’s love endures forever.
- You have shown me the way of life and joy. Thank you, God!
These enthusiastic new ministers reminded me of how God continually turns ordinary people into special servants. This is what I believe God has done for you. As we celebrate the Christmas season, my prayer is that God will continue working living miracles in you and in me.
So in the midst of this hectic but important celebration, may you know —
- The Lord is always with you.
- You will not be shaken for he is right beside you.
- Your heart will be filled with joy.
- You have hope.
- God has shown you the way of life.
Have a blessed Christmas and a joyous 2011!
