 |
| We Can't Download PEACE* |
For the spirit of
Christmas fulfills
the greatest hunger of mankind.
~ Loring A. Schuler,
editor of The Ladies Home Journal, 1928-1935.
It’s a charming corroboration that the delights of the
holiday season -- gifts, lights, decorations, music, food, and festivities -- make
us feel special.
Like the unseen fresh air that filled up the rooms, the
spirit of Christmas is wafting around and about me – stirring me up, even
though I am more like a Grinch than an elf. This spirit urges me to give gifts
worthy of the love I have for all my people – and bids me hope I get gifts
reflecting their love for me.
Is giving and receiving love
then what fulfills the greatest hunger we have?
Yes, but . . .
My humble opinion remains that our greatest unfulfilled hunger is
for peace: peace -- within
ourselves, with those we love, amongst our fellow man, and with God – the God
who so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son – not to condemn us, but
to save us. (John 3:16-17)
Whatever spirit of Christmas is goading us to make or buy
presents, God’s Spirit wants us to listen – amidst this wonderful old world’s
babble sounds -- and hear Him – urging us to accept His gift, then in His love
give the gifts that are incalculably costly – grace, forgiveness and
restoration. In our own strength, none of us has the resources to give these
love gifts. In the strength of Him whose birthday we say we celebrate, though,
we can be lavish.
Forgive us our
trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
*Source for Image: Jorodo
No comments:
Post a Comment