Facing trials means that we still have opportunities to have an impact on the society in which we live.
Thankfulness is a life long practice.
Now, we press on towards another significant time of reflection... in fact it's mere days away as I write this... that... is Christmas! Here again there are many preparations that will go into making this season memorable for ourselves and those around us. Hopefully, this means we will hold fast to the TRUE meaning, that being the birth of Hope. In the form of an infant King who would grow to be an infinite gift of life to all who accept.
Throughout the year I reflect on a particular song but especially during this season. The Little Drummer Boy. The lyrics show recognition that there is One who is worthy of our best gifts. It tells us that each one of us have offerings of different value to bring to our King and that wrapped in pureness of heart all of them will be accepted. Furthermore, the little boy had no abundant resources of great wealth but... he did what he could. He may have even been hesitant to visit this king because in comparison to others, his gift... may have seemed insignificant.
However, instead of focusing on what he did not have, he chose to determine what he did have to offer, him and his drum.
We know through the story of the widow's offering that our God is not interested in quantity but rather quality is his concern. When we attach ourselves with our offerings, we will always touch the heart of God. This happens only through our dependancy. It is then that we reflect the character of Christ the most fully.
The simplicity of this song is how I believe we are to approach God. There doesn't have to be a big 'to do' when we come, no bells that let everyone know when it's happening, no prize for being obedient, no pats on the back... Our only reward may be the smile and commendation of a father, as he says to us one day, 'well done good & faithful child'. I encourage you to do what you can. Regardless of how much you or others think it's worth. Consider for a moment, you are valuable in the eyes of a all powerful, all knowing, all seeing, complete God... he chooses to be concerned about you... and me. If that doesn't blow your mind I don't know what will.
I believe we're called to a progressive obedience. Whether that's in monetary gifts, time, talents...whatever. So don't be discouraged if you don't have everything in control when it comes to your relationship with Christ. You'll get there. We'll get there. We just have to be faithful where we are to bring whatever gifting the Lord has trusted us with, and not only will he be greatly pleased, he'll bless our efforts. After all, there's nothing we can tell him that he hasn't heard, nothing we can show him that he hasn't foreseen, and nothing that we can offer him that he does not deserve. This season let our offering to the king be ourselves, attached to our drums with expectations that he will receive our gifts and that others may be drawn in by the pounding melody of those drums as they harmonize, creating a song that echoes the real reason for not only the season but for life itself.
What helps you keep Jesus at the center during this season?
Merry Christmas
Rodney
