‘Tis the season for shopping, baking, decorating, and more shopping. Looking for the perfect present and perfect presentation of each holiday meal. Traditions are fun to create, but they can take over and run our lives.
The Pharisees tried to cling to their traditions even as Jesus showed another way. Their customs felt safe, predictable, and controllable. Jesus turned all that upside down. They expected a conquering king who would deliver them permanently from all oppressive governments. But Jesus offered them deliverance of the soul. This deliverance is permanent and cannot be taken away.
In this beautiful season of Advent, it is easy for us to get caught up in our own traditions filled with expectations: perfect gifts, special Christmas programs, and drama-free family gatherings, to name a few. We risk focusing on the wrong present and missing the joy of the salvation of our souls. The perfect gift has been provided, paid for, and delivered. It is Jesus. He is the perfect gift. No need to look further. Emmanuel, God with us. Born in a manger, loved by his parents, died on a cross, raised from the dead. Victory over death and now calling to each of us to receive this free gift of eternal life and full deliverance for eternity.
May this Christmas season be filled with praise for the perfect gift given, paid for, and delivered free to you and me. To God be the Glory!
Blessings,
A Christmas Prayer
Lord of all, thank you for the precious and imperishable gift of Jesus. As I celebrate this season, may my traditions point to your treasured Son given to the world. Amen.
Scripture for Meditation
John 3:16 NASB – For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.
Music for Reflection
Great post, Dyann! Wishing you a Christmas season full of wonder and joy!