The Last Day of Christmas

Tomorrow is the last day of Christmas.  Does that surprise you?  Most of us long ago packed away the decorations and all of the other trimmings of Christmas. In many places the only remnants of Christmas are a few broken toys and several unwanted pounds added to the waistline. 

            But traditionally Christmas was celebrated through January 6, the Epiphany, marking the visit of the Magi to Jesus and Mary recorded in Matthew 6.  I’ve been reading a devotional book that I will complete tomorrow morning.  In many ways it has helped me to carry the spirit of Christmas beyond the “Big Day.” 

            There are songs that say it, and perhaps you’ve heard a preacher or teacher declare, “We should take the spirit of Christmas with us through the year.” And it is true. We should do that.

            But the problem is simple. Even when we try our best to do so, life happens.  And life can be messy and disappointing and even hurtful. Life is scary at times.  We hear words like recession, inflation, cancer, death, and divorce, and our blood pressure rises. Our heart rate increases. And we are not sure how to cope.

            So many times in Scripture we read, “Do not be afraid.” And then, we read these words. “I will not forsake you.” And it is clear to me that these words are most helpful when taken together.

            I need not be afraid, because God is with me. He will not forsake me. He will not leave me to my own foolish choices. Paul wrote to Timothy (2 Timothy 2:13), “When we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.”  What an encouraging word! Even when I blow it, God is with me.  I can trust Him. So can you.  Happy New Year.