Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Holiday prayers...
Let me share with you three groups of people to be sensitive and to pray for during the holidays.
The first group is one that we often do remember: those who have lost loved ones. The first holidays without someone you love are very difficult. sometimes you realize that you set one plate too many. Sometimes it is a favorite movie or song, or a gift that reminds you of the one who is not there. Sometimes it is during the prayers when you thank God for their life and influence that the feeling of loss and pain are the most intense.
Many of us love holidays because we have families that love each other, worship together, eat lots, laugh lots, and focus on how blessed we are to have each other. Some people don't have that. Some have to deal with blended families, and custody issues, and divorce consequences. Others have serious family estrangement issues. Some don't even have family to share the holidays with. Remember them.
Finally, remember the new Christians this holiday season. I am talking about those converted from outside the church. We are beginning to have more and more of those here at SH. Some face ridicule, insults, or persecution from family members. Others have to enter an environment hostile to their new lifestyle as Christians. Their family gatherings may involve too much alcohol, no worship, no praying, much profanity, and other things that are dear to the world. They are trying to leave that life. It is hard for them to remain strong.
If none of these apply to you, thank the Lord for your blessings. If they do, we love you and are praying for you. Let me know and I will say a special prayer for you. If you know someone in one of these situations... then pray, be sensitive, be there for them in any way you can.
As for me... family, food, ballgames, hunting, grandkids, games, laughter, and worship. But pain for the Allens, concern for some of our new Christians, and no Remington.
But whatever comes this season, or in the seasons to come -- I have a great life and give God the glory for what He has done and will do.
Until the holiday season of heaven comes... enjoy these next few days.
The first group is one that we often do remember: those who have lost loved ones. The first holidays without someone you love are very difficult. sometimes you realize that you set one plate too many. Sometimes it is a favorite movie or song, or a gift that reminds you of the one who is not there. Sometimes it is during the prayers when you thank God for their life and influence that the feeling of loss and pain are the most intense.
Many of us love holidays because we have families that love each other, worship together, eat lots, laugh lots, and focus on how blessed we are to have each other. Some people don't have that. Some have to deal with blended families, and custody issues, and divorce consequences. Others have serious family estrangement issues. Some don't even have family to share the holidays with. Remember them.
Finally, remember the new Christians this holiday season. I am talking about those converted from outside the church. We are beginning to have more and more of those here at SH. Some face ridicule, insults, or persecution from family members. Others have to enter an environment hostile to their new lifestyle as Christians. Their family gatherings may involve too much alcohol, no worship, no praying, much profanity, and other things that are dear to the world. They are trying to leave that life. It is hard for them to remain strong.
If none of these apply to you, thank the Lord for your blessings. If they do, we love you and are praying for you. Let me know and I will say a special prayer for you. If you know someone in one of these situations... then pray, be sensitive, be there for them in any way you can.
As for me... family, food, ballgames, hunting, grandkids, games, laughter, and worship. But pain for the Allens, concern for some of our new Christians, and no Remington.
But whatever comes this season, or in the seasons to come -- I have a great life and give God the glory for what He has done and will do.
Until the holiday season of heaven comes... enjoy these next few days.
