Candlelight Service at Calvary
As you know, it's definitely not easy for young children to "wait patiently" as they anticipate the "surprises" that come with celebrating Christmas. In reality, it's hard for "older children," like me, as well! Although the "surprises" anticipated (or unanticipated) change over the course of life, there is an ensuing peace to know that "waiting patiently" and "working hard" at whatever we are called to do, experience, or endure is part of God's ultimate, sovereign plan! Amidst the inevitable, unavoidable "busyness," reflecting on the myriad of unanticipated opportunities as well as the innumerable blessings of creating memories in celebration with family and friends during this CHRISTmas season, the common thread lacing the activities and festivities was "patient waiting." The guests who would come to celebrate with us, for whom we had waited patiently, delivered sparkling smiles of joy and gladness. Visiting in the home of "brothers and sisters" in Christ was encouraging and uplifting. These moments are the treasured and cherished ones...that last forever!
What beauty to behold thousands of lit candles on Christmas Eve night, to be still and to be silent, to worship, and to hear the message of CHRISTmas ... to know that ETERNITY entered our time here on earth! This Christmas message--that God revealed Himself in the giving of His Son--is a powerful reminder that work, preparation, and, yes, "waiting patiently" for that ultimate eternal hope to be fully revealed is the reason for every season! This patient waiting gives strength both literally and figuratively.
Thanking God today for giving us a glimpse of what IS and WAS and IS TO COME in the "here and now" ... and, waiting patiently...
"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
Celebrating CHRISTmas all year!
This is a link to the Calvary Christmas Eve Candlelight Service...Enjoy and be encouraged!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBvYXjbluLg
Copyright 2013 Dr. Donna Earl Bridges All rights reserved
As we persevere, keeping our eyes on Jesus, waiting patiently for all God has promised, praise Him that no matter how many promises He has made, they are yes in Christ. Though we eagerly await the coming of our Lord-when we shall see Him as He is-what a blessing to have unbroken fellowship with Him even now through the Holy Sprit...to live eternity now!
ReplyDeleteThank you for these encouraging, amazing truths Mommy! God has given you such a wonderful gift as a writer!