The Carols of Christmas: Daily Advent Devotions on Classic Christmas Carols (28-Day Devotional for Christmas and Advent) (The Devotional Hymn Series)

by Alan Vermilye

the Light of Jesus Christ cannot lose against the darkness; the darkness will never overcome it.

The reality of dark winters is not in itself comforting, but this year, begin to take notice of a very definite and subtle trend that begins around December 24 or 25. You’ll find the days starting to get longer and the light returning! What provides the most comfort on any dark day is to remember that the light of Christ came on the darkest of nights to give us hope and to pour light into our hearts to shine out into our lives for others to see.

“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”

But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21–23

what if every morning felt like Christmas morning? What if, regardless of what was happening in your life, you could bottle that feeling of hope and excitement for the next morning to experience each night before going to bed?

Through all of Jeremiah’s toils and problems, what gave him hope was knowing without a doubt that God loves, shows compassion, and is faithful.

God loved us so much and had so much compassion for the horrible state that we were in that He was faithful to his promise of sending a Savior to rescue us.

What if each night we acted as if the next morning were Christmas Day? What if we woke up each morning confident of God’s endless love and never-ending compassion for and faithfulness to us?

Though the whole world may rage, he holds it in his hand and stands firmly in eternity, working his plan to make all things new.

Jesus humbly came and showed us what love and restoration look like. Unfortunately, reconciliation is not always possible and, sometimes, not advisable. But we should never lose hope. As much as it is possible with you, settle differences quickly this Christmas. If any disagreements remain that prevent reconnecting, maybe it’s time to disconnect from the anger, pain, and feelings of being wronged and to set yourself free.

Perhaps if you’re searching for a “greater joy” this Christmas, you can look to the example of the shepherds as you share the good news that is meant for “all the people” with all the people you know. There can be no greater joy!