Well, what a wonderful weekend. We wrapped up a great week of celebration by unwrapping fantastic gifts for each others, by spending time with family, by enjoying 6 inches of snow and by remembering the birth of the Christ. But now the eggnog ( non-alcoholic, of course) is gone, and bottom of the tree is empty and seems life goes back to the drudgery of it all
But it doesn’t have to be the way. The joy around Christmas sprouts from the joy that is found in living a life full of love for others. No, not the mamby bamby hug ever one sort of love, but a love that comes out of true concern and adoration.
So, as you enjoy the last of the eggnog, remember the carry the spirit along with you, as we see here in these words from Romans about real love in action:
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:9-21