Day 359
Zechariah 8:1-23; Revelation 16:1-21; Psalm 144:1-15; Proverbs 30:29-31
Rejoice! The King Has Come!
We are nothing if not encouraged by the Prophet Zechariah’s words in chapter 8 today as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. To this point, the nation of Israel was discouraged and facing opposition. They needed a word that would point them to a hope which they had lost sight of as their enthusiasm had faded from the recent liberation from captivity. It was painful for them to experience such extreme highs and now such extreme lows. Zechariah’s words come as a fresh wind to remind them that peace will come to Zion and dwell in the midst of Jerusalem.
Who is that peace? Why, none other than the King of Kings, the Davidic descendant, the righteous one…Jesus, The Christ! It was foretold that He would come and bring peace to the city, and save His people. Do you realize today on this Christmas Day, we celebrate the birth of the one who has come? He has not just come, but has come with centuries of prophecy lining his resume. It is the long awaited KING!
As you open presents, spend time with family, and enjoy a wonderful meal on this glorious Christmas Day, remember that these things are mere traditions that lead to emptiness if they are missing Jesus as the centerpiece. Christ has come so that our traditions possess meaning that give way to victory.
May you and your family be filled with the joy of Christ on this Christmas day.
Prayer: Jesus, we praise you that you came in the form of a baby for our sake so that we may be saved and redeemed. Give us grace when we take our focus from you this day, and give us the remembrance to bring you back to the center of our celebration when we lose sight. Amen!
The Rev. Wes Sharp
Holy Cross Episcopal Church
Trussville, AL