As we journey through this time of Advent, we reflect on God’s faithfulness and rejoice in the celebration of Jesus’ birth, while also anticipating His promised return. This season is one of solace, reflection and hope. As I look back at all the past celebrations, Christmas Eve always evokes nostalgic memories of the Candlelight Service at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.
There is something profoundly moving about watching the light pass from one person to another in the dark, each small flickering flame eventually illuminating the entire sanctuary. It’s a beautiful reminder of God’s glory reaching out to us, transforming us to be His light in the world – a powerful and symbolic moment. And when the congregation began to sing, I couldn’t help but imagine God smiling down on His church, their resounding voices rising like a joyful offering to His throne – full of praise, thanksgiving and honour.
Psalm 95:1-3 (ESV) – Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! 2 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! 3 For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
I recall how, during my younger years, Christmas carols stirred up deep emotions within me. Was it a sense of emptiness? Or perhaps a longing? I never quite understood why they had such a powerful effect on me, and it left me bewildered. My soul would stretch out into the emptiness, trying to grasp the faintest wisp of solace that seemed always out of reach. It longed for peace… that sacred stillness capable of mending wounds no words could soothe. But the air offered nothing, indifferent to my grasping. Its silence only deepened the longing, yet my soul pressed on, believing that somewhere beyond the void, the hand of serenity might one day reach back and hold me.
Psalm 63:1 (ESV) – O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Looking back, I now know that God was touching my heart, working in me through His own mysterious way. He filled the void in my heart, a space only He could ever occupy. But the longing remained, growing ever more intense – a longing to walk intimately with the Lord and soak in His presence. The deepest thirst of our souls could only be quenched by Him. ONLY JESUS CAN SATISFY… Thank You Abba Father for Your love and presence that now fills my life.
May this season bring peace, hope and light to all. May your heart be filled with love, joy and a deep connection with Christ. May you encounter Him in a personal way, and may His blessings abound in your life. Wishing you a meaningful and blessed season!
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