Wow...last week was crazy!! I wanted to send out an encouraging Christmas video, but the truth was I was so sick that I didn't have the voice (or energy) to do it. It turns out that I had strep and type A Flu at the same time, and they absolutely kicked my tail!! I know I wasn't the only one sick, either. There were so many in different parts of the country who were just feeling horrible!! I know that was frustrating for so many on Christmas. It put a damper on everything!
In the fog, I was able to worship, but I honestly could not study very well. However, on the eve of Christmas Eve, I was finally able to sit with the scripture, and this stood out so clearly to me...
“But he looked directly at them and said, “What then is this that is written: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.” Luke 20:17-18 ESV
Enduring Word commentary explains that by saying, "[Jesus is] the stone which is essential or crucial to the whole structure. Anyone who comes to Jesus will be broken of their pride and self-will, but those who refuse to come will be crushed by Christ in judgment."
As I reflect on this, It challenges me to be grateful for seasons of weakness or even just small sessions with damp blankets. It is a reminder that all my efforts outside of Christ are worthless and will be crushed. So, it's making me think about what type of steward I want to be with my time, energy, effort, and allegiance in 2024. I don't want to give myself away to anything that has to be crushed!
Think about these words from the song "The Advent Hymn"....
Dark and cheerless is the morn
And 'til your love in me is born
And joyless is the evening sun
And 'til Emmanuel has come
So here I wait in hope of you
All my soul's longing through and through
And dayspring from on high be near
And daystar in my heart appear
Isn't that beautiful to think that we had no hope until the light of Christ rose in our hearts, and now, even though our voices and bodies are still a little weak, because of Him, our song can be strong!! We have to want to be motivated only by the light of Christ!! BUT He is our cornerstone, and if we fall before Him and rise to stand on His truth...He will give us everything we need to shine His light in the dark corner of the world He has entrusted us (2 Peter 1)!!
Thank you, Lord! Because of YOU, we don't have to be crushed, but joyous, effective stewards!
"The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. Each person should do as he has decided in his heart— not reluctantly or out of compulsion since God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
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