4 “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV)
By Bro. John L. Cash, “Country Preacher Dad”
A short devotion today, mamas, because I know you’re strapped for time as you make final preparations for Christmas. Hasn’t it been a busy season this year? I sent Susan to bed early last night because she was exhausted—worn out from late nights of making preparations for the many events and celebrations we attend this time of year. I’ve got to admit, sometimes I have felt discouraged as I look at the enormous amount of preparation that goes into the holiday, and I’ll bet you’ve felt the same way, too.
Whenever I feel that way, I often think of the words of my dear grandmother (pictured right) at a church service in December, so many years ago. The song leader exclaimed, “We’re all so worn out. I’m so glad Christmas only comes once a year!” I was so surprised when Mammaw (sitting in a pew) answered his rhetorical question. She said, “But aren’t you thankful that Christmas does come once a year? Where would we be if it didn’t?”
That kind of cuts to the core, doesn’t it? Yes, we’re kind of frazzled this time of year. But we have unending gratitude that Christmas comes once every year. The Season brings a blessing that touches every part of our lives and fills our hearts with blessed memories. But most of all, if there were no Christmas to celebrate, that would mean there was no Saviour. We would be alone in this life and eternally lost in the age that is to come. How thankful we are that Jesus Christ was born!
So, if we’re a little tired, we’ll take a nap later. Let’s rejoice in this season of Christmas!
It only comes once a year, you know.
Dr. John L. Cash is the “Country Preacher Dad.” He was raised in Stuttgart, Arkansas, and has spent the last 25 years being a country preacher in the piney woods five miles south of the little town of Hickory, Mississippi. (On week days he works at a public school.) He and his lovely wife, Susan, and his sons, Spencer (age 19) and Seth (age 16) live in the parsonage next door to the Antioch Christian Church (where the Preacher served some visiting Ukrainian missionaries some grocery-store eggnog last week.) He would love to hear from you in an email sent to jcash@scott.k12.ms.us.
