It was an odd morning on an odd day of an odd month in a very odd year. It was over 30 degrees warmer this morning than yesterday. The temperature will plummet again tonight. It all was pleasant but overcast. The clouds weighed heavy over the landscape this morning, holding the rain that would eventually burst through. To the east, there was a small break. It wasn’t much, but just enough. The clouds parted ever so slightly and the rays of the sun rising squeezed out. Behind them, beautiful blue skies were evident. It would have been easy not to notice. It was all there, just beyond the clouds. The glimpse was enough to remind me hope is still alive.
I think this is what Christmas is about. That first Christmas was quiet except for Shepherds, a star and those who happened to pass by. It was quiet, it was simple, and it was filled with glimpses of hope scattered all throughout the earth. It didn’t have to be extravagant. It didn’t have to light up the whole sky. Jesus’ name didn’t need to be in lights or written across the sky. It was enough that Hope was born to simple folks in a simple place on a silent night with stars. This Hope changed everything and he still is. Christmas was just the beginning of all that was to come.
This Christmas, it may not seem very “Christmasy” because of all that is going on. Just remember there is a glimmer of hope, rays of sunshine just beyond the clouds, and better days to come. God is not done yet. That means hope is still to come.
Merry Christmas!
Focus Scripture:
Luke 2:7
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 