Week 3- Love
Friday, December 22: See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called Children of God. 1 John 3:1 (NIV)
A few days ago, my wife and I conversed about what we are grateful for. I, personally, think about this often. Thinking of the verse above, it reminds me of all that I am grateful for: the gifts God has given me and lavished upon all of us, the beauty of God’s world and the beauty that surrounds us; the nourishment, hope, faith, support and guidance we receive through the Holy Spirit; God’s commandments to guide us; the wonderful people that surround us and come and go in our busy lives; the spirit of loving, and so much more. I think love and gratefulness go hand in hand.
Two passages come to my mind that help me reflect on this: “The peace of God that surpasses understanding will guard and guide our hearts and minds.” And the second passage: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son, (his only child – think about that) not to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Ponder those words and how powerful they are.
As I reflect on the coming of Christ’s birth, I think of the numerous things I am so grateful for and the things that have made my life what it has become. And I am grateful for the Holy Spirit who has guided me through prayer for so long, for so many years.
Prayer: Holy Father, our creator and father of us all, we thank you for all you have given us, for all you have done for us. We pray that you will forgive us for our shortcomings and for falling short of your wishes, asking that you continue to guide us in your loving ways. Amen.
Gordon – Inspire. Ignite. Invite.
Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Merrillville, IN
