After Party

Nº 335

December 31, 2024

Look to Jesus this Christmas. Receive the reconciliation that he bought. Don’t put it on the shelf unopened. And don’t open it and then make it a means to all your other pleasures. Open it and enjoy the gift. Rejoice in him. Make him your pleasure. Make him your treasure. - John Piper

The glorious excitement of Christ’s birth soon faded. An angel warned Joseph of Herod’s evil plot to murder Jesus. The young family scrambled to assemble their meager belongings and escaped to Egypt. They probably used some of the gold, frankincense and myrrh to finance their escape.

Their world pivoted from adoration, abundance, and angels to running for their lives.

Their Christmas joy quickly disappeared as they faced a major crisis. Many of our lives, like Joseph and Mary’s, roll down the mountaintop of joy into the valley of despair. Happy, relaxing moments give way to seasons of tension and drama.

Two things sustained them during the dark days and fearful journey. First, the gifts they received during their time of joy. And second, the assurance of Jesus’ name: “...and they will call him Immanuel – which means – God with us.” (Matthew 1:23)

If the joy of Christmas has morphed into problems and pain remember past gifts of encouraging words, thoughtful acts, and displays of love. But most of all, remember that the loving Baby of Christmas is the God who came to earth and promises to be with us.

Happy New Year!

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries