Friday, December 31 marks the seventh day of Christmas. I suppose most people are focused on the fact that it is New Year’s Eve and the consideration of what 2022 will bring. However, I believe if we all hold onto what Christmas really means, “God with us” then 2022 should be a year that celebrates kindness, gentleness, compassion, empathy, grace and love.
If these things were embraced by most people there would not be room for rude behavior, crass comments, selfishness, greed or violence. With the power of the Holy Spirit God’s celebration of love through Jesus our Christ, all things are possible.
Paul writes, “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. “ (Gal 6:9)
In spite of the pandemic and political division, love will prevail. It begins first with us. Do we really believe God loves us? Yes, God loves us! You are loved. Hold onto that thought as we enter 2022. Each of us in a small way can make a difference for someone by giving them the gift of “God with us.” God’s love is with us. What an amazing gift that we celebrate in these 12 days of Christmas. Actually, it is a gift given the whole of our lives.
Look out 2022! No more darkness as the people of St. David’s has a mission and that is to share the love and light of God to the world.
“Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the parent loves the child. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. 3 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, 4 for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. 5 Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:1-5)
God blessings continue to be upon you this Christmas season.
Father Dave+