When I look back to my childhood I remember the excitement of the night before Christmas. We all waited in wonder. Clearly, we had hope for tomorrow. My four brothers dreamed of bicycles, bb guns, and toy trucks. I wanted stuffed animals, an Easy Bake Oven, and Barbies. Unfortunately, more times than I can count, my Barbie found herself strapped to the back of a mini bike. (It could have been any brother, but Doug was definitely a creative schemer.) For Barbie’s sake and mine, I changed what I asked for the following Christmas. But on Christmas Eve I still knew, “There was hope for tomorrow.”
The shepherds of long ago looked forward to a new day when they received an unexpected visit deep in the night. “ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:9-12, NIV)
Even in the midst of our troubles, we can stand firm in the land of hope. The God who promised the shepherds a Messiah on that long ago night, still remains faithful today. Consistently, “The Lord’s loyal kindness never ceases: His compassions never end. They are fresh every morning; your faithfulness is abundant!” (Lamentations 3:22-23, NET) Moreover, we can look to the Heavens, and have hope for tomorrow.
Things to do today:
- Meditate on your favorite promise of God.
- Listen to song: Mercies (New Every Morning) Matt Redman