Tuesday, December 10, 2019
Good morning, Jesus.
The world’s version of this Christ-less season has caused us untold stress. What should be a joyous celebration of Advent has morphed into something completely unrecognizable from its original meaning. When did fighting crowds at the mall to find the latest toy or the cannot-live-without trinket, which will be forgotten within a week or put in a springtime yard sale, take priority over worshipping the Savior of the world? How did St. Nicholas, the gifted and generous bishop of the third century, turn into the mythical character Santa Claus? This stress to purchase what we can’t afford so we can give it to someone who is doing the same thing, to do more until we drop from exhaustion, hoping our performance pleases others, has taken the joy out of your miraculous birth, and peace on Earth, goodwill toward men. This stress has driven many to chocolate binge.
Bring us back, Lord, to where we make this season all about you. May the phrase “Jesus is the reason for the season” become the priority. Giving gifts to our loved ones and friends is fine, but we should give you, Jesus, the greatest gift—our lives. As the heavenly choir burst into praise with triumphant Hallelujahs on that joyous night, may we join in with the angels in our praise to you, Lord Jesus. The babe in the manger becomes the Light of the world that shines in the darkness, changing mankind forever.
Be the Reason for the season in our hearts, Lord Jesus. You gave us the greatest gift—your sinless life—for the sins of the world, to give us salvation and eternal life. Truly accepting your gift is “peace on Earth, goodwill toward men.”
Thank you, Jesus. Amen!
THANKFUL 
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