“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33, NIV
Christmas has always been a time for celebration and joy. This year, it would be different. We were consumed in grief over our nephew; a troubled kid. Our sadness robbed the sacred holiday of its awe and wonder that we had experienced in years past. So, I began to pray. “Please, God, don’t let us miss Christmas.”
Tradition in our home is for family and friends join us for Christmas dinner. This year was no different. The house was full of those who had come to celebrate.
The house glittered with lights and tinsel both inside and out. The presents were sorted into piles according to the nametags that were located a top each gift and tucked slightly under the bow. Aromas of holiday foods cooking in the kitchen made our mouths water with anticipation. Outwardly, all seemed right, yet for my family, no celebration or sweet treat could comfort our hearts. Again, I prayed. “Lord, please don’t let us miss Christmas.”
As the evening drew to a close Cody put on his coat. “Merry Christmas,” he said, waving bye with his hand high in the air.
Cody, a friend of our son, had joined the Marines and was due to report after graduation.
He fiddled with his jacket as if he was hesitating. “Are you excited about the Marines?” I asked.
“I wish I had never joined. I’m told the only way to get out of it is not to graduate. So I’m not going to finish school,” Cody said as he shuffled his feet back and forth.
I sighed and began sharing with Cody what I needed to hear myself. ”Peace comes in impossible situations when we rely on God and trust Him with our future, whatever that may be.”
Stunned, Cody asked. “In order to trust and rely on God, don’t I first have to …what’s the word, ah…get saved?”
“You’ve never trusted Christ as you personal Lord and Savior?” I asked?
“No, mama, I haven’t.” Cody said, shaking his head back and forth.
“Well, we can fix that right now if you like.”
My niece and I escorted Cody into a quite room where we explained about the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Cody accepted the peace of God and his countenance changed right in front of our face.
With excitement, Cody announced to our guest, “Guess what everybody? I just gave my heart and life to Jesus!” Cheers filled the house and the true celebration of Christmas had finally begun! It was a Christmas miracle I’ll never forget.
God had heard my prayer. He hadn’t let us miss Christmas at all. In fact, as we looked to Christ for Cody’s sake, He was birthed anew in all our hearts.
Isn’t that why we celebrate Christmas each year? To refocus on the One who offers hope in this fallen world and fills us with lasting peace. Hope for the hurting, sick, and the lost. Christmas reminds us to rejoice in the truth that no matter what we face on earth, Jesus has overcome the world! Gazing on Christ helps us to see, if we have Jesus, we have everything we need.
Dear Lord, thank you for the Savoir of the world who brings peace all year long, in Jesus Name a-men.
Application Steps: To receive God’s peace, invite Jesus to be your Lord and Savior.
-Micca Campbell; Proverbs 31 Ministries