My life is full of good things; love of friends and family, faith that secures my soul, health, peace, being a citizen in a land of plenty! In contrast to my life, millions of people on this planet, find that each day is a desperate struggle merely to survive. Cruelty is a daily experience for those who are powerless. I am disturbed by knowing that thousands (perhaps millions?) of young girls who are exploited in sexual slavery because their poverty leaves them no options. I am tempted to turn my eyes from those who are mentally shattered, addicted, and living in darkness. I am aware that entire nations are held in virtual slavery by evil tyrants who steal the future and the wealth of their countrymen.
Do you know that suffering is real and it's not just 'over there, somewhere?' It may be just across the street or in your brother's house!
Do you know that there is an answer to human misery and that answer is celebrated this Season? Yes, it is Jesus Christ!
Christ Jesus defeated sin, taught us to live nobly and in love, and gives us hope. The reason my life is full of good things results directly from Him. My country's greatness, which provides me so many opportunities, resulted from the founder's respect for and love of Christian principles. (Sadly, we are in rapid decline as we reject that spiritual heritage.) My grandfathers, who were called by the Spirit and who found redemption from sin through salvation in Christ Jesus, created stable homes, freedom from addictions, and a solid work ethic. From that foundation I gained an advantage to enjoy prosperity. Yes, indeed, the Light shined in the darkness and I have benefited. The Word says, "In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness." (John 1:4-5, NIV)
But, am I enriched only that I might live in comfort inside a bubble of blessings?
God forgive me if that is my choice! We who are 'in Christ' have an obligation to shine brightly, to stand up, to speak out, to share our blessings. We are Light-bearers, taking the Light we have in Him.
Scripture is clear that with God's blessing comes an obligation to share, not just because of pity, but to lift others, to help them find the same kind of opportunities we have known. Think carefully about this passage. "This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God. Carrying out this social relief work involves far more than helping meet the bare needs of poor Christians. It also produces abundant and bountiful thanksgivings to God. This relief offering is a prod to live at your very best, showing your gratitude to God by being openly obedient to the plain meaning of the Message of Christ." (2 Corinthians 9:10-13, The Message)
Here's the most amazing part of generosity- it prepares us to receive more! Ah, disciple, the love and grace of Christ when truly experienced cannot help but make us people of liberality and generosity of every kind. Jesus said it spills over beyond our material goods into our relationships: "Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. ... Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full-pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." (Luke 6:34-38, NLT)
May the Christ of Christmas fill you with peace, joy, hope, and love! And, may you in turn enrich others by sharing generously of that which you have been given.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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What Child is this, who laid to rest
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him.
The King of kings, salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
What Child Is This
Dix, William Chatterton
© Public Domain
CoffeeBreak With The Word will be sent out after the holidays.
I will be taking time to enjoy my family and friends. Thank you for reading along.
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