Isaiah 9:6-7
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
If you have read any of my blogs in the past, you know I am a Christmas fanatic. I cannot wait to decorate, sit around the tree, and sing carols while drinking eggnog and eating cookies. I simply love having the grand children over and slipping them “contraband” (candy, rice crispy treats and other snacks). I love shopping for my wife and family. We still send out dozens of personalized Christmas cards. However, this year is going to be a little different.
It is doubtful the family will gather for the big meal and exchange of gifts. Our Church has scheduled a virtual Christmas Program. I doubt if anyone has not been forced to rethink and alter their Christmas celebration plans. In the past, I have even joined neighbors and gone Christmas caroling. Needless to say, COVID-19 has brought those plans to a screeching halt. So, what are we to do? Do we wait and celebrate our Savior’s arrival next year, or wait until someone has developed a vaccine?
As I contemplate the Lord’s goodness, His love for me and His continuous protection, provision and promises, I cannot help but focus on the real essence of Christmas. The reason we give gifts is because He gave the best gift ever. The reason we celebrate family is because He adopted us into His royal family. The reason we can enjoy our friends is because we are once again friends with God.
If I have learned anything this year, I have learned to bless God through everything and trust Him. I have learned to appreciate Him and celebrate those things I know to be true. My friends, this is true – God so loved us that He sent His only Son. My friends, this is true – Isaiah prophesied more than seven hundred years before it happened, a child would be born of a virgin, conceived by the Holy Ghost. That child was Jesus, the Christ. This Christmas will be celebrated more than ever before.
The pandemic will not hinder me from celebrating. Social and political unrest will not get in my way. Economic upheaval will not deter me. Things this year are going to be a little different – but then again, they are going to be the same.
On behalf of Mrs. Pruitte and the Holiness Tabernacle family, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
I bless you in the name of the Lord.