Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
December 26, 2024
Psalm 42:1-11
1 Just like a deer that craves streams of water, my whole being craves you, God. 2 My whole being thirsts for God, for the living God. When will I come and see God’s face? 3 My tears have been my food both day and night, as people constantly questioned me, “Where’s your God now?” 4 But I remember these things as I bare my soul: how I made my way to the mighty one’s abode, to God’s own house, with joyous shouts and thanksgiving songs a huge crowd celebrating the festival! 5 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God. 6 My whole being is depressed. That’s why I remember you from the land of Jordan and Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep called to deep at the noise of your waterfalls; all your massive waves surged over me. 8 By day the LORD commands his faithful love; by night his song is with me a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will say to God, my solid rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I have to walk around, sad, oppressed by enemies?” 10 With my bones crushed, my foes make fun of me, constantly questioning me: “Where’s your God now?” 11 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God.
Good Morning. Welcome to God’s house!
Around the world, Christians are celebrating the arrival of our Savior. Among the celebrations, some are struggling and just trying to get through another day. Some are grieving the loss of a loved one, while others worry about where they will find a warm place to sleep.
I saw a headline in my news feed showing Christmas in Bethlehem with the backdrop of Israel’s war in Gaza. This reminded me that there is always chaos and mess, even in a place where we imagine peace as we sing, O Little Town of Bethlehem.
Due to the census degree, everyone was not calm and quiet on that first Christmas night. It is unlikely that Mary and Joseph were the only ones without proper housing and food for the evening. We have similar experiences when we arrive in a town where big events are happening. Even when we have reservations, sometimes our rooms aren’t ready, and the restaurants have long waits for seating.
Homes with large family gatherings often look like a war zone after the giving of gifts and the consuming of the special meal are completed. So where do we find the hope, peace, joy, and love for which we long? They are available; Jesus is among us. We mustn’t forget to look! I find that staring into the lights on my tree for just a moment, even when everything around me is erupting, helps transport me to a liminal space in which I see Christ face-to-face.
Loving Lord, We are your children! Help us to experience the hope, peace, joy, and love amid the chaos of our lives. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Jesus is with those who seek him!
Joy to the World! The Lord is come! Pastor Liz
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