Why should I celebrate Jesus this year?
I cannot believe that Christmas has come again so soon! So much has happened in my life this year, and I am sure you can say the same about your life. As I look back at the year, however, Jesus has been a constant feature in my life, as he has been there with me through the exciting, challenging and tough moments. This post, therefore, is to celebrate Jesus, my reason for Christmas!
- Jesus my Comforter
Let’s be candid here – there are those moments when there is no human who can comfort you. The pain may be too deep and personal for anyone around you to understand. Jesus, however, understands what we go through because he experienced the full weakness of the human body.
Hebrews 4:15 “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” (NLT)
Do you feel like you are all alone in your pain and weakness? There is good news – Jesus knows exactly what you are feeling, and can comfort you!
2 Corinthians 1:3b “God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.” (NLT)
This past year, the Lord comforted and encouraged me repeatedly when nobody else could. He can do the same for you if you ask him.
- Jesus my Healer
Sickness is all around us! If you have had good health all year, thank God! If you have been unwell at any point during the year, not to worry – so have I! This year I had the opportunity of experiencing divine healing (long story) – not because I deserved it, but because of his grace.
Psalm 103:3 “He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases.” (NLT)
I need to point out something here, though. God is the one who decides who, when and how to heal the sick. We have absolutely nothing to do with it. That is why there are people who suffer for years, others who pass on, and others who are completely healed. God, being the author and giver of life, is the ONLY one who can determine whether healing is to take place. I learned this the hard way, and not only am I grateful for his healing, but also conscious that he healed me for a reason. Whichever category you fall into, therefore, remember to put your complete trust in him, and let him take control of the healing process.
- Jesus my Guide
Typically, we start the year with lots of excellent plans. After a few months, however, things begin to look hazy and uncertain. Did you have those moments this year? I certainly did, several times! Thankfully, Jesus was there to guide and direct me every time I asked for his help! Unfortunately, I did not always remember to seek his wise counsel. Recently, though, I came across the verse below. I had never seen it before, imagine that!
Psalm 25:4 “Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow.” (NLT)
This verse got me thinking. Why do I waste time trying to figure things out, when all I need to do is ask God to show me the way to go? This verse is such a simple, straightforward prayer for guidance!
Here is one of my favorite verses, one that encouraged me when I felt alone in my walk with Christ.
Psalm 37:23 “The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” (NLT)
Every detail my life– not just one, or two, or some – but every single one. Wow! When I didn’t have money for an urgent need, he was there. When I needed peace and reassurance, he was right there. Most importantly, every decision I needed to make became so much clearer, because he had the answers.
Dear friends, my prayer is that you will get a chance to reflect on Jesus this Christmas, and think about whom he is to you, and what he has done for you. Finally, remember that he is your friend, a friend who gave up everything and died for you so that you could share eternal life with him!
John 15:13 “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (NLT)