The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5)
Do you know any of those early bird people who like to put up their Christmas lights and decorations (and even tree!) really early? Most people wait until after Thanksgiving, but some do it even earlier. Maybe you are one of those people!
Here at Pine Haven, the hallways, dining areas, and resident rooms are shining bright in anticipation of Christmas Day. There’s something joyful and uplifting about Christmas lights and decorations on the tree, the manger scene set up on the fireplace and sending and receiving Christmas cards. It not only brings back warm memories but more importantly, it also speaks to the simple but profound truth of Christmas – that Jesus, the light of the world, has broken into our dark, messy, broken world with His glorious light.
I think back to that very first Christmas – the people of God had been waiting for a long time! The prophet Isaiah had written 700 years earlier, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light!” (Isaiah 9:2). God’s promises are always sure and certain, but we must leave the timing and fulfillment to Him. We live expectantly and with faith that He will do just as He says. Then, one dark night, the angel announced the good news to those shepherds on the hillside: “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).
This Christmas season, whether you are full of joy and hope, grieving a painful loss, or simply waiting for God to fulfill a promise in your life, remember that Jesus is worth it. He is Lord, He is Savior, He is Immanuel – God with us through it all.
God’s blessings to you and your family and Merry Christmas!
Pastor Andrew
Andrew.fortuine@pinehaven.org; (920) 550-5252
