No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37
The job posting might read something like this: "Wanted: someone who is child-friendly, a good-organizer, reliable, and has acting skills. Must not have a police record."
The kicker in the job description would be these additions: "Beard preferable, chubbiness an advantage. Seasonal work, one month a year."
In truth, that job description has gone up all over Germany. That's because, this year, Germany has seen a return to traditional family festivities. As a result, there is a great demand for men who fill the above listing.
The reason for the return, according to those people who try to make sense of why people do what they do, is simple. People are trying to protect their children from the evils of this real world.
At least, that's the way Reuters has interpreted it.
Although I qualify for the job of a department store Santa and have a driver's license, which says I have the right name for the position, I don't think I'll apply. That's because I couldn't handle the stress. Nobody -- not even Santa -- can keep our children away from the world's evils.
The best we can hope for is to be brought through those evils and, although Santa can deliver toys with the best of them, he's not up to the job of saving.
Indeed, I know only one person who can protect us for the downside of our days: the Lord Jesus Christ. The sinless Son of God has defeated the devil and death and offers forgiveness, hope, and heaven to all who believe. No, Jesus doesn't always make the evils go away, but He most certainly makes sure those evils won't have the last and final word.
We are, because of Jesus, more than conquerors.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I cannot count the debts I owe You. Please, let me appreciate Your uniqueness and praise Your sacrifice. In Your Name. 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: Ezra 8-10 Revelation 15
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