Now that we are into the second week of January we are working to pack away all of our Christmas decorations. But, even as we put away all the trappings of the holidays, we must remind ourselves to keep the attitude of Ebenezer Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol.” Scrooge vowed that he would keep Christmas in his heart all year long.
Paul is writing to the early church in Rome, a group of believers who are apparently struggling with maintaining their faith. Keeping our faith alive is sometimes hard to do. But Paul makes reference to the Old Testament prophet Isaiah.
Who is the “Root of Jesse?” What does Paul want the Roman believers to do? What will they receive? What does Paul want hope to do in them?
Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean we should pack away what we know and what we celebrated. Bidding farewell to the happiness of Christmas and what it all means can cause some sadness. Many may feel challenged to keep alive the spirit of the holidays, the joy of remembering the gift of Jesus.
Paul’s reference to Isaiah is a reminder of the Christmas story, the fulfillment of prophecy. And that reminder can help us recall why we have joy.
The joy that comes from the reality of Christmas does not end when the evergreen trees are taken down and the ornaments are boxed up. The joy of knowing that the Root of Jesse, Jesus Christ, has been given as a gift to all of us should be with us daily. The knowledge that the Messiah has come to be our hope and our salvation should fill us with joy at all times.
Paul’s desire for the believers in Rome is certainly meant for all believers everywhere. When you trust in God, when you are in step with the Spirit, God will fill you with all joy and peace. And that joy and peace is meant to overflow in you, to be shown to others and shared with others, that they may see your joy. You should be a witness of God’s joy that is meant for all people at all times.
DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you keep the joy of Christmas in your heart all year long?
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