forever yours
"It did not collapse; it had been solidly set on rock." —Matthew 7:25
Will Christmas 2013 have a permanent effect on your life or will it be just a novelty that goes out with the Christmas tree? Will your Christmas be a strong city and a house built on rock? (Is 26:1) Will it be a time of in-depth relationship with the incarnate God or a tinseled tree laying in the snow, awaiting the garbage man?
If we trust in the Lord, follow His directions, and let Him give us Christmas instead of "doing it ourselves," our Christmas will last (see Is 26:4). If we base our lives and Christmases on obedience to God's Word, Christmas will be real (see Mt 7:24). The rains, torrents, and winds of 2014 will blow, but our relationship with the Lord, our marriages, families, and work will grow only stronger.
"The Lord is an eternal Rock" (Is 26:4). "A nation of firm purpose You keep in peace; in peace, for its trust is in You" (Is 26:3). In a disposable world, let God give you something lasting. May this Christmas be a time to begin or nurture a relationship with the Lord that will be eternal.
Prayer: Father, the Christmas presents of the past are barely memories; give me something that will last forever.
Promise: "Open up the gates to let in a nation that is just, one that keeps faith." —Is 26:2
Praise: Maria spends her Advent in prayer and in preparing her heart for the coming of her Lord.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Developing A Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 17, 2013
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