“For David says concerning Him [Jesus], ‘I saw the Lord always before me, for He is at my right hand that I may not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; my flesh also will dwell in hope. You have made known to me the paths of life; You will make me full of gladness with your presence.’” Acts 2:25-26, 28
The pastor took the death of his young son very hard.
Even though he had other children, it seemed like all the joy in his life had disappeared. No longer did he look forward to preaching or doing the things that once had brought him fulfillment. His depression got even darker as Christmas approached. He thought he ought to take a few days of vacation, but his commitment to duty obliged him to stay on task.
The day after the holy day, his family was gathered together at the dinner table. Conversation was marked by long periods of silence. It was then that one of the other children said, "Papa, this was brother's first Christmas in heaven." And another one quickly added, "It's Christmas all the time for him now." The pastor’s sadness and sorrow lifted.
In the days after Christmas, surrounded by torn wrappings and discarded bows, many people truly believe Christmas is over. For them, it's back to the disappointments of life.
It doesn't have to be like that. For those who know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, every day can be Christmas. In Jesus every day can be filled with happiness and joy.
So, if you're feeling a bit down, perk up. The living Lord is with you. If you know the gladness that comes from sins forgiven, please share it when the calendar no longer says it is Christmas, but it ought to be.
From a devotion originally written for "By the Way"
THE PRAYER: Our Father in heaven, though our lives are weighed down with the cares of this world, they needn’t be. Your Son bore our burdens so we wouldn’t have to. In Jesus our hope and joy are certain. Thank You, Lord. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,
Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour®
Lutheran Hour Ministries
Today's Bible Readings: Malachi 1-2 Revelation 21
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