God of the Gift, renew in the heart of this dear reader the joy of this season; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Here is our text for today from Titus 2: 11 God's readiness to give and forgive is now public. Salvation's available for everyone! 12 We're being shown how to turn our backs on a godless, indulgent life, and how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life. This new life is starting right now, 13 and is whetting our appetites for the glorious day when our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, appears. 14 He offered himself as a sacrifice to free us from a dark, rebellious life into this good, pure life, making us a people he can be proud of, energetic in goodness.
The gift of forgiveness when given is precious. The gift of forgiven when received is powerful. The gift of forgiveness when it is part of our entrance into the fullness of life in Jesus Christ, is transformational. Such is the gift of God for us that we celebrate during this season. The writer of Titus knows and lives that and rejoices in it. How about us? The pressure's on, you say, just a couple more items and I'll be done! Take a deep breath and relax and rejoice in what God has already given to you: Your release from sin and bondage and an invitation into the greatest life there is, the life of a committed Christian.
May this passage remind us of what God has, is, and will always offer. A Merry Christmas indeed!
PRAYER: Loving God, help me to relax and rejoice in what I need to truly enjoy the fullness of life that You offer to me. This is the true meaning of Christmas. Help me to share that with others; in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
