God’s Lantern: Shining Bright On Christmas Eve
The holidays are the most special time of the year on so many levels. The darkness of winter takes a break as holiday lights seem to spring up overnight, illuminating the winter sky with bursts of color.
Many folks are spending Christmas and/or New Year’s with friends, family or loved ones. Others may be quietly laying low at home, celebrating in their own special way. It’s truly wonderful to listen to Christmas music, enjoy the holiday shopping and decorate the tree.
Who doesn’t love the glow in children’s eyes because they know Santa Claus and his sleigh are on the horizon? Even pets seem to get extra treats and toys during the holidays! Turkeys, hams, casseroles – and an abundance of foods grace many tables as everyone gathers. Yes, it is a magical time of the year!
But first and foremost, it’s important to remember the true meaning of Christmas – the real reason we celebrate. The gifts, the tree, the festivities – all are simply window dressings for the true main event: Christmas Eve:
It was a starry night, complete with angels. God’s Lantern shone bright on baby Jesus laying in a manger – no crib, no hospital – born in a basic stable. It was a humble beginning on a cold winter night. It was, and still is, the most important birth EVER! Because of His birth, we are here today. Because of Him, our sins will be forgiven, and the glory of everlasting life awaits us.
As we celebrate all the joys that Christmas and the New Year bring, let us be sure to take plenty of personal time to rejoice in the birth of Jesus – rejoice that we are here, right now, today. Let us push all our troubles aside (kick them to the curb) and focus on God’s Lantern of light shining down on Baby Jesus.
During this holiday season, it’s especially important to have that one-on-one talk with God. Be thankful. Be humble. No matter good times or bad times, He is always there, listening and watching.
Yes, it can be hard during the busy holiday season, but finding some quiet time and a special place to have a personal chat with God will not only help you to strengthen your faith, but you’ll feel a whole lot better afterwards! Usher out 2024 with concrete prayers – solid prayers of thankfulness for the birth of baby Jesus.
Let God’s Lantern shine brightly on you, your family and friends during this most blessed holiday season. His Lantern will never go out and it will forever guide you, whether it be on a clear night or stormy night.
Let there be peace on Earth as we celebrate our Savior’s birth. Let our hearts be filled with comfort and joy right now and going forward into 2025. Merry Christmas.