Monday, December 23, 2013

Shade Tree Wisdom 12/23/13


                                      At Christmas 2013

          The news is of storms and bad travel conditions for this season.  I look out of my window and see a sunny day, cold, but calm and nice.  The week here promises much of the same.  But there are many areas with snow and icy driving conditions.  I pray your travel will be pleasant and right on time.

          The holiday decorations and the many ads, the busy shopping and the many stories of helpful hands proving meals for Christmas and gifts for children remind us that Christmas is here.  [ an aside – a FedEx survey finds that 33% of holiday gift-getters complete all returns before New Year’s Day].

          There is a much deeper meaning for those who believe in Jesus Christ.  For the birth of the King is our Savior, Jesus Christ, sent to save us from sin.  “For God has not appointed us to wrath but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us that, whether we wake or sleep, we shall live together with him” 1 Thessalonians 5, 9.10.
 
          That news is always the best news.  For “God so loved the world, that He sent His Only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3,16.  St. John writes on, “for God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” V.17.

          The longer the Lord allows me on this earth, the more I appreciate this good news.  And more, Ruth and I are deeply grateful to belong a church whose Pastors teach the truths of the Gospel with sincere firmness and with deep conviction.

          The news in the world is mostly depressing. Wars, rumors of wars, dishonesty, corruption rampant, and a government that seems to hesitate in its leadership.  We pray for the leaders of this nation, for wisdom to lead and give us indeed life that is lived in a way of quiet and pace with boldness and confidence.

          May your days be filled with the faith that the Spirit plants, and may this celebration strengthen and bless you each day.

          A Blessed Christmas with His peace.

GPD 12/23/13

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