A Sabbath Contemplation

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it"
{Psalm 118:24}. 

The Sabbath after the celebration of Jesus' birth.  A time to reflect on recent days of joy.  To recall the special memories that will remain in my heart for many days to come.  To be reminded again of Who this season is all about.  To imagine, to begin to comprehend, the magnitude of the Father's love for us that He would release His Son to earth.

And that is something I just can't begin to fathom.

"The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us ... full of grace and truth ... and from the fullness of His grace, we have received one blessing after another {John 1:14, 16}.  Our salvation.  The Holy Spirit Who fills all the empty places, Who comforts and guides.  Family.  And friends who've become family.  The ability to worship and live for Christ.  Gifts that have been given to be used in ministry to others.  Health and wisdom and blessings enough for each day.

And freedom.  Because if we know and accept the truth, it will set us free {John 8:32}.  Free from the entanglements of sin.  Free from being defined by anything that isn't of God.  Free to climb out of the boxes we've been trapped in.  Free to love and serve and live out the callings He's placed on our lives.

Yes, "we have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth ... and "from the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another."

Help me to see, to claim, to delight in these priceless gifts.  And then share these blessings with those who need to know the powerful, yet gentle touch of our Savior. 

Linda