Devotional for 12/20/15
Can you imagine how Mary felt as she and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem when the birth of her first child was imminent? She even may have been having some early labor pains as they approached their destination. All this was occurring while traversing the rough terrain on foot or on the back of a donkey. Then there was no room at the inn, but they were allowed to bed down with the animals - quite the birthing room! Yet in the end it was all worth it as the Savior arrived and angels proclaimed his birth.
Our lives go through much the same pattern. Life on this earth is hard. We are constantly bombarded by difficulties along the way. Sometimes our emotional or physical pain is so great we groan and cry out in anguish. Thankfully we have the confidence that the Holy Spirit is with us every step of the way until we arrive at our destination. No matter what we go through or how many times we falter, as we remain faithful to God, we are forgiven and adopted into Christ's family and inherit eternal life with Him in heaven. It is all worth it in the end!
Romans 8:22-23 (NIV) For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
Our world is going through similar things. As we approach the second coming of Christ, things will continue to get worse on this earth. Wars and rumors of wars, famines and earthquakes, darkness and difficulties will intensify. Our world is groaning in labor pains as it awaits the glory of Jesus' return, to be accompanied again by angels.
As we continue on our journey may we always keep our eyes upon Christ!
Dear Lord in heaven, we know that in this world we will have struggles and pain at times. Help us to remain faithful in our footsteps along the journey. This week as we approach our celebration of your birth once again, keep our eyes focused upon you, the heart of Christmas. Help us also to point others toward the greatest gift at the manger. In your name we pray, Amen.
written by Jan Andersen
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