ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
December 12, 2020
Scripture: James 1:2-4
My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
Thought for the Day: Ok! Christmas can officially start. I watched my favorite movie of all time, as I do every Christmas – It’s A Wonderful Life. Toward the end of the movie, there is the wonderful scene on the bridge where Bert the cop approaches George and says, “Hey, your mouth is bleeding. Are you sure you’re alright?” With excitement, George says, “My mouth’s bleeding, Bert! My mouth’s bleeding… Zuzu’s petals, Zuzu’s… There they are! Bert! What do you know about that! Merry Christmas!” On what had been the worst day of his life, compounded by the heavenly opportunity of seeing what life would be like had he never been born, George is provided a whole new perspective on life. His desperation and hopelessness were overcome by the sheer joy of rediscovering love. And yes, everything turned out beyond perfect in the end which is not always the case for most of us. Yet love, especially when we are able to see its depth and raw power, can draw us from the depths of darkness. Let this Christmas Season provide you an opportunity to receive a whole new perspective on life, on a life lived in the knowledge of God’s relentless and redemptive love.
Prayer: Even in the darker moments of life, remind me of your love, O Lord, a love from which true joy shall emerge. Amen.
