Christmas is for the Miserable
One’s expectation and experience of Christmas is deeply impacted by one’s life situation. The grandparents eagerly preparing for a house full of kids and grandkids may find it easy to sing, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!” But what about the widow in a long-term care facility who will spend Christmas with the same roommate and staff they see every day of the year? How can a song of joy possibly come from her heart?
While songs of joy may struggle to rise, the truth is that Christmas is most suited for those who are miserable. “For unto us a child is born,” said Isaiah. (Isaiah 9:6) God did not direct this promise to people in cozy homes with happy families, but to those living in darkness and distress suffering cruel oppression.
“To us a son is given…and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” The exciting announcement was not merely that a ray of beauty would brighten an ugly world, but that a ruler would come who would fix this awful mess we’ve made. “He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.” (Isaiah 9:7)
There is nothing wrong with a Hallmark Christmas scene, and enjoying the food, laughter and hugs is a sweet blessing. But the heart of Christmas is about God rescuing those who are in bondage and crying out for help. Few are more desperate for rescue than the women trapped in the world’s largest brothel in Bangladesh.
We have missionaries who have been doing gospel ministry in this country for the last seven years, and God has led them to focus their efforts on serving the women and children ensnared in human trafficking. God has miraculously opened doors of opportunity for them recently, and they are striving to take full advantage.
One of their major efforts is teaching the women to make a variety of handmade goods that can be exported and sold. This simple process is massively significant and enables our missionaries to communicate the foundational truths of the gospel.
The world sees these women as commodities. God sees these women and their children as precious, so much so that he came in person to rescue them. Our missionaries are simply ambassadors of Jesus’ rescue mission, and we are partnering with them in this effort. Please pray for this ongoing work of redemption.
May God fill you with true Christmas joy.
Pastor Toby
Categories: Evergreen Connection