Where is the hope? Between the financial crisis and multiple natural disasters, the majority of American's have been affected. Then throw in our transition to a new President, the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and disturbing events in our communities and families it is understandable why some would wonder.
I define hope as something you need when you are in a situation beyond your control. Your determination, education, passing of time, money and position do not solve your problem. You feel that if there is going to be a solution, it must come from outside yourself.
Christmas is the annual worldwide celebration of the birth of Jesus. From the time of His birth in the first century to the people of today, His birth continues to inspire hope.
His birth was marked with many supernatural events. On one occasion, a heavenly angel spoke to His earthly father, Joseph, about his soon to be wife, Mary, saying, “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matt. 1:21)
That divine mission was the hope of all humanity. It was to provide a way for people to be saved from their sin. Why is that hope? Because sin is at the root of hopelessness. The curse of sin, the sin of others and our own sin. Physical death, sickness and disease are all part of this curse. Divorce, drunkenness, lying, greed and sexual immorality may be sins that you or people in your circle of family or friends have been guilty of. It has affected all of us bringing chaos or complete destruction to our lives or to those whom we love.
Jesus birth, His eventual death and resurrection have made a way that we can have real hope. Whether the trials we go through are of our own making or from the hands of others, we do not have to carry the burden anymore. When we turn from trying to save ourselves and in faith call upon Jesus, we discover the lasting hope of Christmas. May you receive His hope this Christmas season.
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