By Christopher Basilio
Day 11. December 24, 2021
Bible Reading: Luke 2:1-20; Galatians 4:4-5; 1 Kings 19:1-13; John 14:27, 16:33; Philippians 4:6-7
“Silent Night”, a very popular Christmas carol originated as a German poem entitled “Stille Nacht”, created by Joseph Mohr in 1816 at a village in Austria. It was later composed with a melody by Franz Xaver Gruber on Christmas Eve, 1818.
“Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright. Round yon virgin mother and child!”
The song brings us to the birth of Jesus Christ! The coming of Jesus Christ is the climax of God’s plan of salvation God is preparing history for this moment! Before Jesus can be born into the world, He will need a family to be born in. Before a family can be chosen for Jesus, a nation needs to be established from where the family will originate. Before a nation can be founded, it needs a land to occupy. And to distinguish this land, this nation and this family from all the rest of the world it should bear the identity and presence of God. All these God prepares from Genesis to Malachi. What an awesome God!!
Is your trust and belief in God shaken up this year? This pandemic is truly been the most tragic time for many of us. Do not lose heart! More than we will ever know God is working behind the scenes, as he has always been throughout history, working for the good of those who love Him.
“Holy infant, so tender and mild. Sleep in heavenly peace! Sleep in heavenly peace.”
At the time Jesus is born, people over the years are thinking how the Messiah will come into this world. Will he come with great power to redeem the kingdom of Israel? Will he come with might to restore Israel’s dominion? But no, the Messiah comes in humility, peace, calmness, and serenity, wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.
In 1 Kings 19:1-13 we see a similar incident. Elijah is wanting to meet with God. God comes not with the powerful wind, the violent earthquake nor the raging fire but with a very gentle whisper.
God is the Lord of Peace. True power is with God because only He can grant transcending peace. With God we can be still no matter what trials or challenges are happening around us. God is inviting us to receive this peace by following Jesus.
How are you this one year and nine months of COVID 19 pandemic? Too many hurts and pain? Losing someone you love in a time of many restrictions? Jesus has overcome the world and through Him we can have peace. Let the peace of Christ dwell in us richly. Trust in His power, trust in His guidance.
More that we will ever know, God is working for the good of those who love Him. Let us not doubt God’s love for us. And as Jesus overcomes the world, let us come near him and enjoy His peace. Merry Christmas!!!
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