Christmas Eve. The main lights go off in the worship center and the last few people leave for home. At this time of night, the huge panels of windows in the church breezeway are like mirrors, and the shining concrete floors form a magical ice rink that reflect the white lights from the Christmas trees. They seem to cast angel shadows.
I remember how during this season a year earlier, I was lying in a hospital trauma unit with an injury that would require my arm be amputated. I prayed beseechingly to God to let me see another Christmas.
My faith was tested during the long night of my accident, but God stayed with me, strengthening me. When I was rescued, it felt, like in Isaiah 55, as if all of nature sang out, the mountains, forests, sea, and sky! I realized God forever holds his hand out to us in compassion, inviting us to be restored and to receive his blessings when times seem their darkest.
God’s greatest blessing to us is Jesus and I am especially thankful to celebrate his birth this Christmas after a long recovery. I am full of gratitude for the chance to respond to God’s grace and to share the joy and true warmth of community by serving as a greeter on the Dream Team. I feel the spirit of Christmas and am honored to be a small part of something so wonderful.
As those last few people leave for home, I recall the words from Isaiah, “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace.” It is what I wish for them, and for you.