The other day at work I was listening to some Christmas music whilst I banged out a power point presentation. After a few rounds of Veggie Tales singing “I can’t believe it’s Christmas, I think I might be getting something”, the shuffle of my iPod took me over to Chris Tomlin’s version of O Holy Night. One verse in particular stuck out to me, and that was this:
“Truly he taught us to love one another”
and then that is followed by this
“In his name all oppression shall cease”
So here we are, one week from the celebration of the Christos, the Christ, the Messiah, the Savior’s birth. We will be gathering around Christmas trees with our families, passing the Eggnog and opening presents. But let’s not forget the lessons that babe taught us as he grew in wisdom and stature. For he did indeed did tell us,
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 (New International Version, ©2010)
Lets heed James’ call and follow the law of love:
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says – James 1:22 NIV
and then we can truly sing along:
Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!