Holidays

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Larry Lilly's Letter Tuesday December 6, 2005

I have committed to use the Christmas, Advent or Incarnation theme for the month of December, to see if I can. Get me right I love the coming of Christ but for most of my memory I have not been a fan of the utter silliness of the season, having gone so far in my days of ignorance as to take the position of Spurgeon and the Puritans in an attempt to keep my mind uncluttered from the traditions of men in order to more clearly see the simple beauty of Christ. HA.

In simplified form we are told that Christ came to save his people from their sins, to deliver them sat in darkness, to comfort those who mourn. Further His designation by the angel, Immanuel, God with us, certainly means that he cares enough to be with us.

Another aspect of Christ is often added to this short list. I am sure you have heard, probably even used it, namely, Christ came in order to understand us. Millions find meaning and comfort in using it. On a surface study of the scripture this may appear so, but a grasp of who He is, dispels such thoughts. I do not believe there was ever a nanosecond when Jesus did not know who He is. Many things are stated about Him to help us understand the deeper reasons for the events of life.

One of the beauties of God with us, is that we may truly understand that He understands. David, the sweet psalmist of Israel wrote in Psalms 103:14 "For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust."

Prior to the first advent we learn that God knows us, He knows how He made us, what He used to make us, and considers this in His dealing with us. Dr. Lamoyne Sharp in his grand series, "Preaching Thru The Psalms" said, 'God remembers what man forgets, our infirmities, and forgets what man remembers, our iniquities.'

To say that God discovered or learned about our weakness is absurd. Christ lived, suffered and died for many reasons, one of which is to assures of the truth of the song, 'No One Understands Like Jesus.'

So, as the madding throng spends money like drunken sailors after a long voyage, we who know Him can contemplate the glory of God in Christ and fall on our knees in awe as we join with angels, wise men and shepherds in worshiping Him.

Have you endured much pain? Physical, emotional, deep heartbreaking pain, betrayal, shunning, the loss of things or of loved ones or friends who meant all the world to you? How about reputation? I assure you that Christ understands and He always did and He always will.

He revealed Himself in a humble stable, with joy that endured the cross. He is saying to you and me through His First Advent, "Hey, wherever you start in this human life, with Me at your side, it will be alright. I understand."

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2005 Use with credit.

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