Filled with the Hope of Christmas

I think we all need extra doses of hope these days.

We are very used to being in control of things, but the pandemic places us in a reality where we realize we don’t have that control.  

Christmas clearly proclaims the message of...hope.  Hope that is found in the greatest gift we could ever receive--Jesus.  Jesus is the bringer of hope.  

So, this Christmas how can we be filled with hope?  Here are some thoughts:

REST IN HOPE THIS CHRISTMAS

“No wonder my heart is glad, and my tongue shouts His praises!  My body rests in hope...You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with the joy of Your presence.”    Acts 2:26, 28 (NLT)

I like that phrase: “Rest in hope.”  Taking rest is a choice--so choose to rest in Hope!  Then refuse to move from your rest in Jesus by what you see or hear around you.  Rest in the promise of the words of Jesus: “Come to Me, and I will give you rest.”  

Stop and move toward the promise of Hope.  

REFUSE TO GIVE INTO FEAR THIS CHRISTMAS

It is the #1 given commandment in the Bible: Fear not!

Truly, there are plenty of opportunities to find fear wherever we look.  What will happen next?  What about my job?  What about my family?    

Depend on  the presence and promise of God who will never leave us or forsake us.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

KNOW THAT CHRIST IN YOU IS THE HOPE OF GLORY THIS CHRISTMAS

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”        
                                                                                                      Colossians 1:27 (NIV)

Here is reality: The glory of God has made you a new creation.  You are made new the moment you followed Jesus and He continues to change you from the inside out each and every day.  

One of the greatest things you can do at Christmas time is experience more or God’s glory--His manifested presence.  God is at work and we hope in that process.  

GIVE A REASON FOR YOUR HOPE THIS CHRISTMAS

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”          
        Romans 15:13 (NIV)

Most of the world is without hope.  They may celebrate a holiday this time of year, but they don’t have the Hope of Christmas.

Watch for the opportunities this Christmas to share the reason for your hope.  It is the greatest gift you can give to someone.  

Finally, remember:  A Savior has been born for you.  A Savior that gives hope to our troubled and frightened world.  Because even in dark times, there is light.  

When you feel like God has forgotten you, when you feel abandoned, for those sick and struggling, for the lost and lonely--Do not be afraid.  

A Savior has been born for you who is Christ the Lord.  Here is your hope.  Here is our hope.