Christmas "Presence"

As the lights line the Christmas tree
and the ornaments adorn its branches,
no one can deny what lies
beneath its mighty splendor.
But when the gifts have all been opened
and it seems that Christmas has come and gone,
we’ll find that underneath it all is not the “presents,”
but the glory of God’s “Presence.”
It is the gift that is given to us every
moment of every day . . . each day of the year.
It is never packed away in a box . . .
His “Presence” is always present.

He is with us always.
(Matthew 28:20)

God’s gift to us was One that would be
with us for all eternity.
Although it did not come wrapped in
pretty paper or topped with a glistening bow,
He wrapped it in His everlasting mercy and grace.
The unique part about God’s gift
to us is that we can give it to others,
yet still keep it for our own.
We can bestow His love and mercy
and bring others into His “Presence.”
It’s the gift that keeps on giving,
if we will simply pass it on.

God’s “Presence” sees us through
our greatest difficulties,
comforts us in our deepest sorrows,
and leads us into Victory, when we
acknowledge Him in all our ways.
His “Presence” breaks down all boundaries,
overcomes all obstacles,
and brings hope to those
who are consumed with despair.
But it is only when we receive Him and the gift
He has given to us that we will
come to know its true value.

Knowing that “God is with us” is the
greatest gift He could have ever given.
His love is without question
defined in the birth of Christ
and the Sacrifice of His life that conquered death.
There is no greater love than this.
So as we gather together this Christmas,
absorbing all its wonder,
let us reflect on God’s love
as we gaze at glistening lights
that do not compare to the “Light of the World.”

Let our hearts open wide and praise
our Almighty loving God,
as we open the pretty presents
that could never parallel the joy and peace that
God has given us with His “Presence.”