By Pastor Mike Glover
For The Cordova Times
Christmas has always been a time when we celebrate life, joy and love, surrounded by family and friends. But 2020 has been a year unlike any other in recent memory, and one that has put many relationships to the test. Between neighbors feuding over politics and loved ones being separated through quarantining and maintaining social bubbles, we have been increasingly aware of the ever-encroaching distance and darkness that can creep into our lives and hearts. And brightly-wrapped presents under the tree and turkeys in the oven can only do so much to restore our faith in the future.
This year, let us all remember the true reason we celebrate. For unto us a child is born! In celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, we do more than find a reason for a bright holiday in the midst of a dark season; we hold fast to the truth that in the deepest darkness of the mess we can make of this world, God will never leave us or forsake us. Christ came to us to show us that His light can shine brightly even in the darkest moments.
His salvation is not only powerful but instructive as well. For God came not only to save us from our self-imposed prison of sin, but did so by taking on the form of a servant, a lowly born and humble man. Jesus’ humility and mercy were the hallmark of his ministry on earth, and His people have been called to carry on that same ministry, loving and serving every person with mercy and grace.
So as we celebrate Christmas this year, let’s do so not simply with glittering ornaments and blinking lights. Let’s bring real and lasting light into Cordova and into our world by helping one another, listening to different opinions, forgiving the faults and the failures of others, and giving ourselves some grace while we’re at it! In short, let us love God and love one another, just as our Savior has encouraged us!
May 2021 be a year of exciting opportunities, enriching conversations and dawning light as we walk forward hand-in-hand.
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined… For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:2,7
Mike Glover is pastor for Cordova Community Baptist Church.
