“Peace on Earth, Goodwill to all Men”
“You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.”
One of my favorite Christmas songs growing up was “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Hearing Andy Williams croon this song was a big sign for me that Christmas time was right around the corner. At the time my family lived in California and you could feel the crispness in the air and everybody seemed so happy and joyful.
As I grew older Christmas became the time to visit my folks (now in Florida) and time to buy everyone on my list a nice present that wouldn’t break my pocket. But still the magic of Christmas would captivate my heart. The songs especially. As I write this I’m listening to Israel Haughton and Cece Winans singing “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.”
There is no denying that Christmas is truly the most wonderful time of the year. We know that Christ’s birth didn’t exactly happen on the 25th of December, but it’s a day we get to reflect and rejoice on our King’s birth. Jesus Christ came in the purest form to Earth as a babe and came to bring us the greatest gift of all… salvation.
We live in a time of insecurity, of doubt, of economic strife and war… for some it may not be a time to celebrate, but mourn. Let’s together pray for one another and remember to be there when the spirit calls.
During this time of the year let’s reflect on the following:
- What does Christmas mean to you?
- What Christmas song is your favorite?
- How do you and your loved ones celebrate this special time of the year?
- What is your favorite Christmas memory?
- What is the message of Christ teaching you today?
Let this Christmas season bring peace on Earth, and goodwill to all men, even if just for this moment.
Please note that the views expressed in this story are not necessarily the views of the American Bible Society. Story posted on December 15th, 2008 and filed under Bible, Praise, God's Love, Hope, Team Corner, Your Stories, Prayer, God's Sovereignty, Grace, Christian Families, Struggles, Evangelization, Life Verse.
December 15th, 2008 at 10:55 pm
My esteemed and beloved Abby the Community Host:
Your concluding message has helped me–sort of– on Skype with two of my grandchildren in Scotland:
Their mother Grace, my number five child and daughter, was moving the webcam around the house with them, as they wanted to show me their rooms.
“Show mine first!” The fight between 6-year old Timmy and 9-year old Lia started.
On the door of Timmy’s room, I saw his neatly written sign: Lia, do not come into my room!
You can imagine the verbal encounter between these two very intelligent but naughty siblings during this time.
I quoted your very tolerant conclusion: “Let this Christmas season bring peace on Earth, and goodwill to all men, even if just for this moment,” please, good children?
“Only this one moment. That’s it!” The siblings responded simultaneously.
Grace was convulsed with laughter, as she reads your SYSN routinely.
Thank you.
May GOD ALL MIGHTY Bless you, your Team, and Readers this Christmastide and
Many, many more to come!
Mary Sun.
December 16th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
That is such a great story Mary Sun! :) I can just see them quiet down at the sound of their grandmother’s tender voice trying to soothe them down. Too funny.
Hope you and your family have a great holiday season!!!!