We assume that Simeon refers to the crucifixion, but it
is an important reminder that saying yes to God’s plan is
not a call to an easy life. Mature Christians understand
that loss, pain and suffering are a part of life. In the words
of Elisabeth Elliot, “I am not a theologian or a scholar, but
I am very aware of the fact that pain is necessary to all of
us. In my own life, I think I can honestly say that out of
the deepest pain has come the strongest conviction of the
presence of God and the love of God.”
Saying yes to God, in any and every way, is the key to
living life to the fullest and the only way a Christian can
find peace and navigate the uncertain days we are living
in.
How can we live with hope in times that are so
uncertain? The Apostle Paul’s writings to the church in
Philippi provides an answer:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends
all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in
Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).
Here are three practical suggestions for how we can say
yes to God this Advent and Christmas season:
Give yourself away.
Something amazing happens when we take the focus off
ourselves and commit to serving those around us. What
one specific step could you take to minister to a neighbor,
friend, co-worker or stranger in need?
pg. 8 — lightandlifemagazine.com
Give God an open door.
Giving God an open door means asking yourself, have
you given God control over all the areas of your life? If
not, stop right now. Invite God to open your eyes to what
it means for Him to be Lord of all, and then say yes! to
Him being Lord in every area of your life.
Give God your next right step.
Perhaps the next right step for you is to join a virtual
or in-person small group at your church? Maybe
God is calling your family to sponsor a child or an
additional child through ICCM? Find a new way to
take a significant step toward God at this amazing
season of the year.
The amazing events of Jesus’ birth came about
because of everyone’s willingness to say yes. In
this unpredicted and unpredictable reality we
find ourselves in right now, let’s follow Mary’s
example in her humble response to God. Just
say yes! +
“Saying yes to God,
in any and every way, is
the key to living life to
the fullest and the only
way a Christian can find
peace and navigate the
uncertain days we are
living in.”
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