December 25

Written by Bill Grandi on December 25th, 2018

Following an early morning rise and a breakfast for the community, I’m finally getting to my NMM. Seems strange that the devotion is not about baby Jesus, the manger, etc.  But it was still very poignant. It actually focused on another good and important truth for Christmas. In short, Jesus came to give me life but part of that is something I can count on: His presence to the end.

I need to remember these:

  • Jesus willingly endured constant rejection and life-ending injustice so I would remember the unalterable, unshakeable and undefeated love of God.
  • He readily went unloved so I would know constant love.
  • He deserved to be loved, but was rejected so that I, who deserved to be rejected, would be eternally loved.
  • He was willing to submit to the fickle and failing love of His followers so I would know the faithful and unfailing love of the Father.
  • He endured separation from His Father so I wouldn’t.

If God was willing to do all that, what would make me think He would abandon me?

“Father, thank you for the manger. Thank you for the deeper truth that the manger is a precursor to something grander: love for me, with me, forever!”

 

4 Comments so far ↓

  1. floyd samons says:

    Well done, Bill. I know you didn’t, and don’t, do things for the pat on the back.

    And thanks for the reminder of the unfailing love of the Father and Son.

    It is grace beyond amazing.

    Merry Christmas.

    • Bill Grandi says:

      Thanks Floyd. It was nice serving others even though it is tiring. But it turns out to be a good tired, And I am forever grateful for the unfailing love of the Father.

  2. Ryan S. says:

    Bill,
    I agree, I didn’t remember from last year, but I would have expected more focus on the birth of Christ.

    Though, the reason Jesus was born was His necessary death, burial, and resurrection. He faced ridicule and rejection… and still does in many circles.

    We don’t face nearly the same level of rejection or ridicule, perhaps if I were more like Jesus I would. Perhaps I play it to safe.

    I am thankful I will never have to experience the separation Jesus did from God our father.

    Ryan S.

    • Bill Grandi says:

      You hit the nail on the head Ryan in this: “I am thankful I will never have to experience the separation Jesus did from God our Father.” That preaches.