Monday, December 6, 2004
Romans 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.
TOGETHERNESS
How does the world so often get ready for Christmas? By promoting a spirit of "togetherness." According to many, the very heart of Christmas is supposed to be family gatherings and precious moments with loved ones. We are all supposed to put our differences aside for a few hours on the 25th of December the way the World War I soldiers did in the trenches of France. "Christmas is coming, so let's just all get along," they say.
But if your feelings of "togetherness" are only tied to a day on the calendar, what happens when that day is gone? What happens to those who lay aside their differences on the 25th? Do they take them up again on the 26th?
Let me tell you about the true unity that you have. It begins at the manger in Bethlehem. Remember in these last days the joyful union you share with your fellow believers which is based on the Christmas gospel. While the world runs after Santa Claus and a few scrawny reindeer, you all share a greater, more solid hope. As you get ready for Christmas, you look for a Christ-child who will take away all sin on the cross. You look for One who will lavish forgiveness upon you and take you to be with Himself forever in heaven.
Yes, you may have differences among one another from time to time, but the great Savior's gifts which you all share are able to overcome any petty disputes and bring "togetherness" to every day.
May your unity in the faith with others be a joy to your heart and in your life. 