For most of us, thoughts of Christmas lead to thoughts of home.
Often these thoughts are sweet and contain the most wonderful and loving memories. We remember past Christmas celebrations filled with people loving each other: decorating the house, putting up lights, sharing meals, buying gifts, opening gifts, going to church together, and singing carols. Memories that warm our hearts and make us smile.
Others had different Christmases. There was little love, no money, no decorations, and no reason for the season. Christmas was something to be endured—something that caused pain that would be felt and remembered for years to come.
Jesus invites us to live and celebrate life—not just Christmas—at home in His love. Home where we are accepted exactly as we are, where we know we are safe and protected, where we are encouraged to dream and step out in faith, where we are supported, and where life is full of compassion, joy, and peace. Home where there is more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
This Christmas, think on Jesus’ invitation to be at home in His love. Doing so will make your year a year of real celebration.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Susan Paulus is the mother of three adult daughters and grandmother to nine and has been married for over 60 years. She loves her part-time job at her small church in Northwest Ohio, is challenged by the two writers' groups she attends, and loves remembering she was led to the Lord in the mid 1970's by a woman who prayed, "Lord, use me."