Not If, But When!
Philippians 2:16, Devotional #6

Hold tightly to the word of life, so that when Christ returns, I will be proud that I did not lose the race and that my work was not useless.
Philippians 2:16
                                                

Father, we are coming off of a wonderful Christmas season at Orchard Hill Church, in the Parker family and in our personal lives. It's been wonderful because the focus has not been lights, Christmas trees, presents, family, etc. The focus has been Jesus and Your incredible gift of grace to humankind, the grace of Your Son coming for our sin, for reconciliation, for forgiveness, for relationship, for healing, for joy, for fulfillment, for propitiation, for atonement, for peace, for salvation, for redemption. Bottom line: He came for us so that we could have a relationship with You. We have been the recipients of an incredible gift, free to us who receive it, but so costly to You, to Him.

The free gift is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. No wonder Christmas is such a big deal.  You know many gifts exchanged hands. This year I remember most of the presents I received. From last year, I remember hardly any. Hmmm, from 1965, I remember none.   But I remember some gifts I received along the way, they were more special. One is a tiny Tennessee football helmet autographed by Al, Mike, Dave, Bob, Pat, Steve, Bob, Rob, John, Tom and Rob. They gave it to me after my brain surgery and it sits on my desk autographed by them all.

Special gifts find their special place: on our desk, on the wall, on a dresser top, in our hearts; somewhere. And the special gift came 2,000 years ago, came to me in February, 1965 and keeps on coming today to those who receive Him: eternal life, which begins now, in Christ our Lord. His love, forgiveness, joy, etc., finds that very special place in our hearts. Yes, He came, and yes, He will come again. And when He returns - not if, but when - our hearts will burst with joy.  Come Holy Spirit. Fill the hearts of all who believe.

Thank You, Father, in Jesus name. Amen.

Love, Dad / Danny