Rush Hours

Luke 2:11 - Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord. (NIV)

Every year I rebel against the onslaught of the commercial Christmas season. Although I endeavor to guard my time and strive to reflect the spiritual and holy side of Christmas, it is easy to get busy with practices for the church, career, business and family.

Do you, too, find that instead of having more time to worship Christ, he is being crowded out of your life? Do you find yourself coming into this holy season, tired and drained both physically and emotionally?

In the rush hours of our busy days, let's pause at the manger now, and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Let's examine our hearts, our lives, our minds, and ask our Savior to show us how we, at this blessed Christmastime, and even the whole year through, can give Christ a gift of meaningful worship.

He will use us more than the gifts we buy, or the cooking or planning we do, but only we give Him the space, a manger in our everyday lives.

Come silently to the manger now
And bring your gift so rare:
A helping hand, a few kind words,
A willing heart, a silent prayer.

As you give your gift this Christmas
Like worshipers long ago,
May you find the peace Christ promised
When He told you He loves you so.

Prayer: Help us, dear Savior, to come to the manger and see you with the same awe and wonder as the first visitors of long ago. Amen.

posted by Will Ravelob at the PHIAA e-group