Today I went to church for the final Christmas program rehearsal. From 9 til noon. I’m playing keys mostly – so it was fairly enjoyable. I love worshipping with Christmas carols – singing about Jesus’ arrival here on earth so long ago. Normally it puts me in the Christmas spirit.
But by the time we arrived home, I was completely and utterly irritated. Why? Because things were not perfect at the practice. I am a perfectionist – and things at the rehearsal were less than well – perfect. It was the decorations, or lack thereof. It was the sound system and the problematic mix in my monitor. It was the last minute change in songs. Slowly I felt myself morphing into Scrooge, from the tips of my toes right up to the hairs on my head – and it wasn’t pretty.
But thank goodness for facebook friends on the other side of the world.
Before leaving for the rehearsal I had updated everyone on where I was heading. When I came home there were several comments on my status… including one from a friend (who used to worship here at our church, but now lives very far away) who unknowingly said, “So jealous! Enjoy!”
Immediate perspective – like a splash of cold water on my hot and frustrated heart.
My friend lives in a country that will not celebrate Christmas. She will not be able to sing Christmas carols full voice with fellow believers. There is no program or choir to sing in, let alone decorations or monitors or new songs to learn last minute. No she and her husband will worship Jesus on His birthday most likely in a much different setting, making my current situation seem golden.
I find myself contemplating my place, here on this side of the world – and I know my heart needs an adjustment. I am surrounded by goodness and positive circumstances, living a life of ease, without worry or significant trials. And still I find excuses to remain negative, critical and ungrateful. God help me!
But there is good news : Jesus came. He arrived more than 2000 years ago, on the other side of the world. His love and forgiveness stretch out, encompassing this whole wide earth. And these gifts are for everyone – for me and my family – and for my friend who is all of those thousands of miles away.
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us— that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full… If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:1-4; 1:9
These words of forgiveness and fellowship are so beautiful to me in the midst of this Christmas season. And they are not just for me and mine here on this side of the world – but they are for all who repent and believe.
Heavenly Father,
Forgive my selfish and sinful heart. Help me to live in the light of your fellowship this Advent Season. Let my life be a reflection of your forgiveness and love. amen.
daily portion 