Preparing for Christmas is hard work. Several years ago, my wife and I did something unusual – especially for this time of the year. We went to the mall!
It was December 2016, and we were planning a quick trip to New York City. We decided we might need a coat for the real winter weather we would experience. Finding winter clothing in Phoenix isn’t easy. Our frigid weather of 60 degrees requires a long-sleeved shirt, not a down-filled coat! However, recognizing that our arrival to NYC would greet us with below-freezing temperatures, we agreed that – like it or not – it was time to visit the malls.
After spending the day looking for appropriate clothing (that we would only use for four days), I was exhausted. The mad, frantic pace I observed in people who were scrambling to prepare for Christmas was apparent.
The experience at the mall allowed me to see the culture of Christmas panic, making sure all the gifts are purchased, wrapped, and ready. But, preparing for Christmas is more than buying and wrapping gifts. Filling our hearts with encouragement when life is uncertain is equally necessary.
Listen to the words of the prophet Isaiah:
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come with vengeance,
with terrible recompense. He will come and save you.” (Isaiah 35:3-4 NSRV)
Isaiah’s words are spoken to people living in the midst of oppression and suffering. He admonishes individuals who face doubt and fear to be vigorous and courageous; equally, a demanding necessity when life is uncertain and unpredictable.
Preparing for Christmas is about realigning our focus toward Jesus who came to save us! Perhaps the greatest gift we can offer each other is to encourage each other with these words: “God will come to save us!”
What the future holds for us is uncertain. The world is more unpredictable than ever. To anxious hearts concerned about many issues, let Isaiah’s words continue to strengthen weak hands and feeble knees.
May you find comfort and HOPE as you await the coming of Christ. May you actively strengthen the weak hands and feeble knees of others by reminding them: “God will come to save us!”
Merry Christmas.
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