Love In Action

Christmas Day is a wonderful time for family celebrations. In our family, December 25 also happens to be my parents' wedding anniversary.  My mom and dad were both 18 when they married, and this year will mark their 68th anniversary. 

Every Christmas, I'm reminded of what great role models they have been and how they have sent me on the right path for life. That's about as good a gift as anyone could receive. 

Reflect on the Word

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.  Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.  Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.  Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.  Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.  On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.  

Romans 12:9-21 (CEB)

^{My dad and mom, married almost 68 years, showing us 'love in action' on our wedding day.}

Take Time to Pray

God of Love, 

As we remember that Love came down at Christmas, shape our hearts to reflect Your goodness. Make our love sincere, our actions compassionate, and our spirits steady in hope. Teach us to live in peace and to overcome evil with good.

Let Christ’s love take root in us this Advent, so that Your light shines through all we do.

Amen.

Listen to the Carol

Christina Rossetti (1830–1894) is best known for the beloved carol “In the Bleak Midwinter,” but she also penned the beautiful hymn “Love Came Down at Christmas.” In this rendition, Christopher Norton offers a graceful arrangement, performed by The Saint Michael’s Singers.