Preaching the Gospel to Myself

Amy Dawson / Administrative Assistant to Student Ministries

Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash

I have fond memories of previous Christmas seasons being filled with wonder. I enjoy contemplating different perspectives of Jesus’ arrival in this world and gaining a fresh outlook about who Jesus is. Here I am, more than a week into December and I haven’t yet placed my mind or my heart in a position to wonder at the miracle of baby Jesus. When I don’t make this a priority, I miss out on receiving the joy of Emmanuel, God with us.

My days are filled with immediate needs to meet, and sadly, God is getting less of me during this Christmas season than in years prior. How can I put Christ first today and in the days to come? I don’t want to be unprepared to celebrate the most precious gift I have received. Today I choose to preach the gospel to myself, that Love came down to be with me and each of us in this world. I invite Jesus into my thoughts and moments knowing that He delights in me and the space I offer Him.

What do you hope for? I am hoping to hear a friend say, “I’m cancer free,” to see loved ones sooner than later, to hug those I miss when I see them, I am hoping for sickness to take a backseat in the news, for unity among our nation, and for the church to rise up to the challenges of these days. I long for each one of these, and I think of them often. I write this keenly aware of looking forward to many things changing in this world, many troubling things. 

For now, these less than desirable situations drive me to my only true hope, Jesus, the baby sent by God to be my Rescuer. He has saved me from this world and the troubles I see with my eyes and feel with my spirit. He doesn’t change, hasn’t moved, and will not leave me, ever. He is with me always and continually offers His love that never gives up on me. May I, and may we, all remember this truth and rejoice in His Presence as He continues to be the very best present.