I find myself struggling to write this month. So much has happened. We have experienced mass shootings, sexual immorality, unheard of distractions and frustrations. How do I write about the spirit of Christmas? How do you find the encouragement to read about Christmas? I found the answer in the series I began two months ago, HOPE! I find the strength to write, preach, teach and even worship in HOPE through Jesus Christ.
From Luke’s gospel in chapter two we read about the birth of Christ. Before the incarnate birth we read beginning with verse 8 the account of angels coming to the Shepherds. What a blessed event this was. The common man, tending their flock, then suddenly the sky opens and a glorious light shine around them. The heavenly conversation is amazing to read repeatedly. But, one word stands out in mind as I write this article. The word eudokía, or translated in English “good will.” There is no better time to spread good will than Christmas.
God spread good will to humanity with the birth of Christ, our messiah. Good will is understood to be delight in the life of another or others. Over thousands of years mankind has waited on their redeemer. Now, we read He has arrived and with Him comes good will.
The Church can share the good will of God’s word every day of our lives. With the gospel we have an opportunity to meet, in some way the material needs of those around us. Look around, there are families struggling, children having to suffer because of bad decisions of adults. There is elderly living next door to us who only need and friendly visit. The nursing homes and hospitals are full of kind, loving and lonely folks wishing they could hear a Merry Christmas and have someone ask if they could pray with them.
I’m not trying to guilt trip anyone into anything. I realize Christmas is a busy time of the year. There is shopping, and cooking and gatherings; can you find time to spread good will in someone’s life. Lori and I have found that place this year. We have committed ourselves to the local mission’s center and their Christmas meal. We pray that HOPE will be given through good will. If you really want to find HOPE in the worldly mess around us, try first giving of yourself and try spreading good will. Once you see that it really works you will want to find a way to do this every day throughout the year. Merry Christmas everyone and look for HOPE from good will!
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