Reality

"... to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” - Luke 1:77-79

The holiday season is coming quickly, but it won't bring joy and celebration for everyone. The lights and decorations may shine brightly, but there are many hearts that are empty and broken. Parties, gifts, songs and laughter will fill the schedule, but will there be sunshine and joy for the coming months?  The reality of life overwhelms.

A small but brilliant ray of hope is found in the song of Zechariah. We have a God filled with "tender mercy" who brings "the rising sun from heaven to shine". When we know the Christ of Christmas as Savior and friend, we can have sunshine in the darkest times. The reality of light will overwhelm. 

My dear friend, please don't allow these hard bitter days to get the best of you. Remember the One who loves you with a heart of "tender mercy". Jeremiah the prophet once said ... Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”  (Lamentations 3:22-24)  You can know peace and joy in and out of season because... The reality of love overwhelms.