The Christmas hope

"I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark." John 12:46 NLT

Since going back to work full-time six months ago, my morning run times are no longer flexible. And while getting started at 6:00 a.m. was great back in July, it's a little more complicated in the winter. It seems it takes almost as much time getting dressed as it does to actually run. But when I was recently asked the question by a coworker if the frigid predawn temperatures were the hardest thing to prepare for, I said, "Actually, no. It's the darkness. Even with a headlamp, the sheer darkness of the early morning is hard to overcome." But you know what keeps me going? Each morning as I head out, I have this assurance... the light will eventually overcome it and the sun will shine.

And you know, more than 2,000 years ago, the world was filled with the overwhelming darkness of sin and the people had lost all hope. That was until the day Jesus Christ was born. The day we now celebrate as Christmas. The day our Savior left His throne to come down "as a light to shine in this dark world" and restore hope "so that all who put their trust" in Him would "no longer remain in the dark." 

Unfortunately though, on what's supposed to be the happiest day of the year, there are still many people without hope. People so defeated by the darkness of the sin and despair in their lives that they have forgotten the reason for this great celebration. People that need to be reminded of why we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. And the reason is this... because of Christmas, the darkness has been overcome once and for all and there is forgiveness of sin for everyone - no matter what they've done. What a cause for celebration!!

Heavenly Father, thank you for the joy and hope that Christmas brings. Help us to remember that the celebration is about You and nothing else. Thank You for the birth of Jesus Christ that provided forgiveness for sin and eternal life. I pray that if there's someone reading this that has not put their trust in You and accepted the free gift of salvation you are offering that today would be the day they invite you into their hearts. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The Christmas hope - Newsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWH6bBfAssI