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Watermelon, Handprints and Fireworks ... What do they all have in common? They are all elements of favourite Christmas memories and traditions from our MORE Network staff, from around the world!
No matter where you are from, if you’ve lived in Canada through more than one or two Christmas seasons, you have probably heard a Christmas carol or saw a card with the phrase, “Peace On Earth”.
And you may be wondering, what peace?
Whether it was Israel 2000 years ago, under the brutal occupation of the Roman Empire, or Israel today, peace is not the word anyone would use to describe it. Peace, for most of us, is the absence of conflict and suffering. No more wars. No more fighting. If the events of that first Christmas were supposed to usher in “peace”, there’s no evidence of it.
I am so grateful for Christmas, for The Hope of Christmas. Not the sugar-coated, Hallmark movie kind of Christmas, where everything turns out okay in the end. Not the presents and candy canes and tinsel. Not even all the messaging about love and giving and togetherness.
Our Hope has a name. Jesus Christ, Immanuel, God with us.
A prayer for Canada Day...
Father God,
You are mighty in power; you extend your reach throughout the planet and the universe. You provide protection and give mercy to your children. We praise you for your protection of Canada as we celebrate your goodness and provision for our nation...
This morning as we watch the unfolding glory of the sun rising in the sky revealing the majesty of your creation, we are reminded of the rising of our Savior, Jesus Christ from the tomb.
Father,
We glorify your name this holiday season. For you alone, O Lord, are worthy of all praise, glory, and honor.
Christmas day reminds us of your majesty and grace. We are reminded of the sacrifice you made when Jesus came from heaven as a child to show us what the Father is like. How amazing that the infinite God came to live among us, and not only that, but also to be sacrificed for the punishment we deserve.
May we never presume on your kindness and take for granted what you have done; may you alone continue to receive all praise and glory.
We thank you, Father, for the many blessings you bestow on us, for we know that every good and perfect gift comes from above, from the Father of lights who does not change...