As we just celebrated Advent and Christmas, we remember that over 2,000 years ago, God sent US a message in His Son, and a plan of hope and redemption.
Many of us will not recognize the name Ray Tomlinson, but his work impacts most of our lives every single day. The rule of thumb that governs the work of Mr. Tomlinson says: “Don’t open it unless you trust the sender.” In 1971, he connected human beings to a computer - then to another computer - and then to another human being by sending the very first email. Today, billions of emails are sent, and the warning is still the same: “Don’t open it unless you trust the sender.”
Over 2,000 years ago God sent us a message in His Son - and yes - we can trust the sender. People today are awed by the inconceivable mystery of an almighty God coming to earth in the form of a baby, and today, many still hesitate to reach out to Him to receive the message of salvation that He brought to His creation. That is what this Christmas season is all about, God’s incredible message of love. It is a message of redemption and hope from the sender Almighty God the Father.
“Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die. Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth. Hark the Herald Angels sing . . .” We all know and have sung that wonderful Charles Wesley Christmas hymn, but how many really understand what that one first short verse is saying? “Mild He lays His glory by,” When Jesus came as a baby, He left God’s right hand, left His throne and His place in heaven, in Order to come all the way to earth just to be born in a dirty stable . . . where He laid His GLORY aside. But then, why on earth would He do all of that? “Born that man no more may die. Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”
By the way . . . someday He is going to make the trip again. But the next time He makes the trip, He will come back as the King of kings and Lord of lords. I believe God is asking us here: Are you serious? Are you playing games or just going through the motions? Are you play acting? Are you serious about your relationship with me? Have you really repented? Have you completely yielded your life to me? and Am I in First Place?
How will you live during 2023? He wants you and I to be completely sold out, not just in moments of emotion. God I’m willing to do whatever you tell me to do. God I’m willing to go wherever you tell to go. God I’m willing to give up whatever you want me to sacrifice. Will our attitude and commitment be one of total surrender? Will we surrender our thoughts? Will we surrender our desires? Will we surrender our fears? We must surrender ALL our sins.
I pray that your main goal for the New Year is to get closer to God and to deepen your relationship with the Him.
Always in His Service, Pastor Ron Pastor, Fellowship Church of the Nazarene