Countdown to Christmas – Day 24

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:1-5

King Herod was furious that the Magi had not returned to him with news of the baby who was being called King of the Jews. He felt duped and in retaliation ordered an infanticide of all young male children in Bethlehem and surrounding vicinities. Every little boy slaughtered by the hands of Herod’s army so that he could keep his throne.

An angel appeared to Joseph giving him instruction to take Mary and Jesus and flee into Egypt. Fear would grip them in their humanity not knowing how God would spare this child, but peace and perseverance would guide them as they heeded in obedience to God’s instruction. By the light of the moon they escaped therefore fulfilling the promise and prophecy in scripture that the Messiah and Son of God would be called out of Egypt as recorded in the book of Hosea.

We live in a time in history where there exists many still escaping under the cover of night in order to spare their lives. All matters of war including genocide have eradicated the innocent lives of millions. Trials and troubles saturate this world in a way nearly inconceivable to most. And we live in a time of history where the hope of a Messiah is so desperately needed. Souls are hungry for the blessing of God’s mercy and grace. Souls are struggling to find happiness when what they need is joy. And souls are sinking in impatience and disappointment.

Christ understands it all for He Himself has lived trails, troubles, and inconceivable pain. But He came to overcome it so our character may be refined sending a message to the world that there is joy to be found in the suffering. He freely pours His love and stands before the throne of God justifying our heart. To Him be the glory.

Father, though I may not understand your ways, I thank you for your gift of freewill to love your Son. May I seek Him in my sufferings and persevere in my pain. In Jesus name, amen.