Although we are ending on a troubled note this year following the October 7 massacre by Hamas and Israel’s self-defense, we should take heart. Our Savior God still loves us, each person is precious to Him, and He desires our fellowship.

And this did not commence with the birth of Jesus. There are many references in the Old Testament where the Lord states “I will be your God, and you shall be My people.” Moses, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel referenced the Lord’s loving words – and these words do mandate our  obedience, He will be our God, and we shall be His people. What a promise this is from the Creator of the universe! How much more following the death of His Son, being saved by His life, will His love wash over us, cleanse us, and give us His joy in the present. And in eternity, life with Him forever.

On a personal note, it has been both a good and a sad year for me – a promotion at work but the loss of a sibling to cancer. And yet the Lord is faithful to comfort us in all of our sadness or affliction – He never leaves us or forsakes us; and indeed, He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Wise men still seek Him. Merry Christmas!