Advent 2022 – Day 29
Sunday, December 25th
Sounding Joy, How Sweet The Sound
By Susie Orr / Season of life: Retired and Loving It
Scripture
For God so loved the world that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life. ~ John 3:16
I grew up in a Christian home and attended Sevier Heights Baptist church from about five weeks old until my later teen years. My Christian background and beliefs have sustained me through many situations and difficulties that come with living in this world. I will share one particular time when I felt the true presence of God in my life. The feeling of peace with the presence of the Lord is like none other. There are, of course, many other times and many blessings including my husband, children and grandchildren – Thank you, Jesus!
My only sister, Terry, was diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease, at the age of 54. It is always fatal, some lasting longer than others. ALS slowly shuts down the pathway to the brain for movement of limbs, muscles, and every other part of the body. My sister’s disease moved quickly. When she was at the end of her journey, she could not move anything except her eyes.
One Sunday morning, I received the call that her time was near. My family and I spent the day at her side at St. Mary’s residential hospice. One sweet lady came by the hospice center with lunch and said God told her there was a large family in need that day. It was a blessing. As the evening came, I put my head by my sister’s and told her once more that I would be there for her girls and that I loved her so and would see her again. For the first time in days, she moved her head against mine and I felt a peace.
That slight movement of my sister gave me peace and strength to help my parents through the next few days and weeks, as well as her girls. What a joy to know our Lord is with us and will give us comfort when most needed.
The Christmas season is my favorite time of year. My husband and I decorate, entertain, and give gifts. But always celebrate baby Jesus and what he means to the world. Merry Christmas!
Closing Prayer
Our dear Heavenly Father, you are so good to us! Thank you. We celebrate your goodness during this holy season through your most precious gift, your Son. Help us remember the spirit of this season all through the next year. And please, Lord, be with our country. Amen
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Reflections
What are a few ways you have experienced the Lord’s goodness during this season of your life? __________________________________________________________________________________________________
In what you have read, what stands out to you the most?
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In what way(s) could you apply Susie’s scripture and testimony to your own life? __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Lord God, may I “repeat the sounding joy” of who You are today! Merry Christmas!