Extending Christmas

Nº 178 weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - December 28, 2021

The immense step from the Babe at Bethlehem to the living, reigning triumphant Lord Jesus, returning to earth for His own people - that is the glorious truth proclaimed throughout Scripture. As the bells ring out the joys of Christmas, may we also be alert for the final trumpet that will announce His return, when we shall always be with Him. - Alan Redpath

Joseph and Mary took baby Jesus to the Temple to present him to the Lord. As they entered the Temple court a devout and righteous man named Simeon approached them. God had assured Simeon that he would not die until seeing the Messiah. And God’s Spirit had prompted him to visit the Temple that very day. When they met, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and prayed, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” (Luke 2:29-32) Onlookers might have assumed a grandfather was adoring his grandson or an old man was blessing a new baby. They missed the grand moment. Simeon’s prayer states that God’s salvation had been prepared in the sight of all people. But apparently, Simeon was the only one looking for the Savior. As the Christmas tree comes down, decorations stored, and celebrations subside, extend the season. Keep looking for Jesus – remember, He is “our salvation . . . a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”

Dan Bolin President Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc