So, there they are, November and December. They are just months of the year, the final two in our system. But, in them are the potential of scripting a brighter, lighter finale to Drama 2020 and Mr. Mayhem. Their strategic placement at the end of our year is just one of those God things that rivets my focus somewhat. All year many of us have been humming "Woe is Me" tunes. Then comes November and December and we're singing about gratitude, angels, a manger, Christ the king, and the blessings of life. They are the many physical, emotional, and spiritual lifts most of us need after Drama 2020 and the year of Mr. Mayhem.
Sadly, many Americans will forego the deeper life truths of these two special seasons. Poverty, distress, racial tension, social unrest, the realities of the human condition, and election 2020 give many Americans a bad taste at year end. Thankfulness isn't the mood of every American. Two elements of the Christian worldview should mark my path during these final months of 2020---
1. I should be thankful in all circumstances.
The Apostle Paul wrote, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians 5: 18, ESV). Being thankful for life is more than appreciation for our financial or material blessings. All of us should give thanks for even the most elemental blessings entrusted to us. You know, like breathing right now.
2. In the spirit of Thanksgiving I should help someone who is less fortunate.
Dozens of Scriptures affirm the joys and blessings of helping others. Thanksgiving season is a choice time to express our gratitude to God by assisting those around us who have special needs. The anonymous author of Hebrews wrote, "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God" (Hebrews 13: 16, ESV). Thanksgiving is a great reminder to shift our hearts from self to others.
Then, there is the Christmas season. Of course it is the season of giving. At root in this blessed time of the year is the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ our Lord. He is our eternal source of peace and hope. And you know it's true, peace and hope should script a blessed finale to Drama 2020.
1. Christ brings peace into our tumultuous lives.
In Drama 2020, the year of mayhem, who of us couldn't use a little peace. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5: 1, ESV).
2. Christ is our source of eternal hope.
Sadly many individuals are disheartened and discouraged by the circumstances of life, especially in the year of Drama 2020. Again, the Apostle Paul wrote, "Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God" (Romans 5: 2, ESV).
So, fast forward to November and December. They are months to celebrate the blessings of God. In the Thanksgiving spirit we can be grateful and express our gratitude by being watchful of others with special needs. Then, the Christmas season reminds us of the peace and hope that is ours in Jesus Christ.
Mr. Mayhem says "bah humbug", get a life. Still, 'tis the season. Rejoice and be glad.
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