Thursday, December 23, 2010
The Comforter Has Come
While many folks think of Christmas as “the most wonderful time of the year,” the truth is for many people, that simply isn’t the case.
Long-term unemployment. Addiction. Mental illness. These are all a part of Christmas for many of the homeless. That’s why I am so pleased that I can share with those who are discouraged that hope and comfort are found in the Christmas Story.
When the Prophet Isaiah foretold that the Messiah would be born, he cried out, “comfort, yes, comfort My people!” Simeon, as told in Luke 2, understood this, for he was looking for “the Consolation of Israel.” He was looking for the Messiah who would be a Comforter.
Jesus provides Comfort. Jesus, the Messiah provides salvation and peace with God, and therefore, the peace of God. Therein is our hope and comfort.
That’s the hope and comfort found in the story of Christmas!
Long-term unemployment. Addiction. Mental illness. These are all a part of Christmas for many of the homeless. That’s why I am so pleased that I can share with those who are discouraged that hope and comfort are found in the Christmas Story.
When the Prophet Isaiah foretold that the Messiah would be born, he cried out, “comfort, yes, comfort My people!” Simeon, as told in Luke 2, understood this, for he was looking for “the Consolation of Israel.” He was looking for the Messiah who would be a Comforter.
Jesus provides Comfort. Jesus, the Messiah provides salvation and peace with God, and therefore, the peace of God. Therein is our hope and comfort.
That’s the hope and comfort found in the story of Christmas!
