Merry Christmas

Christmas is here! Christ is here! I pray that you will have a wonderful Christ-filled Christmas this week.

I was reflecting on the beautiful Christmas carol, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” translated by John Neale. This is one of the most ancient carols we sing and one of the most contemplative. The words and melody are thought to have originated in the 12th century and used specifically during the Advent Season.

In the mid-1800’s the Anglican minister John Neale translated this ancient Latin chant into English. The song which speaks of the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14 as being fulfilled in Matthew 1:23 has been sung in churches of all denominations.

This gorgeous song would not be so meaningful if we did not understand the word “Emmanuel” to mean “God with us.” The moving melody and the understanding that God truly is with us, does much to calm our spirits and bring us joy during this time of Advent.

The word ‘advent’ comes from Latin meaning ‘coming towards’ and speaks of Christ coming to earth to be “God with us”. Advent really has three implications, Christ coming to Bethlehem, Christ coming into our hearts, and Christ coming again. Christ Jesus is with us indeed.

It is my prayer that you will not only have head knowledge of Christ, but that your heart will be filled with His presence. Christmas is a reality and God is not only with us, He is in us through His Spirit. Please take time to talk with Jesus our Lord this week. Don’t let all the good things that will take place this week take you completely away from a quiet time with him.

As the late Ron Mehl, wrote in his stirring book, God Works the Night Shift, “Doesn’t the Christian life really boil down to being held by God and, in turn, holding on to Him?” God is with you so hold on to Him this week.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Eternity Minded Ministries!

Dan

P.S. Just after the holidays we will have a report to you on all that God did in Rwanda!

Copyright 2008 Eternity Minded Ministries