Saturday, December 9, 2017
1 John. 3:8 For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.
A TERRIBLE TIME FOR SATAN?
At first glance it would seem to be a terrible time of year for Satan, the Devil. For each time Satan hears the Christmas story or a carol proclaiming the Savior, he must cringe. When he considers how "big" Christmas has become, there seems little he can do except to go into hibernation until it all blows over. WRONG! If there is one thing Satan is master of, it is turning an apparently hopeless situation to his advantage.
Buoyed by polls indicating fewer Americans than ever even believe he exists, he is more than happy to remain out of the spotlight at Christmas -- so long as our Christmas celebrations miss the mark! He is happy to see the beautiful Christmas carols secularized. He delights in seeing Christmas commercialized, in seeing people kept busy with all the trimmings of Christmas. He doesn't even mind seeing people being kind to one another, or calling for world peace, or even going to church-- as long as people miss the real meaning of Christmas: why God sent His Son to this earth.
Christmas is a wonderful season, but also one of the Devil's busiest. Have a blessed and happy Christmas-- but don't forget that the "enemy" has not retreated or let down his guard. Rejoice in the coming of the Christ-child and the gift of salvation He brings to you and all mankind. Make this the focal point of all your Christmas activities. For while you will then bring joy to your Father in heaven, you will bring sorrow and remorse to the one and only person you wish to have a truly miserable Christmas. Have a wretched Christmas, Satan.
Remember Christ our Savior Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy!
-- Adapted from the "Lutheran Spokesman"
