Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Annunciation to Joseph 

 Hebrews 9:11-28

 “For this reason, Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” Hebrews 9:15

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...” Store fronts have put up their decorations and houses all around our neighborhoods have started putting up lights and decorating their trees. The holiday music all around us helps set the mood for the season of giving. In the midst of all of this sometimes we get so caught up in the moment we forget to take a little time to reflect on how God’s gift to us changed the course of history.
    In Paul’s letter to the Hebrews, he explains the difference between the earthly temple’s sacrificial system and the sacrifice of Christ. In the Old Testament we see the high priests sacrifice animals for the redemption of their sins. But when Christ came down as “high priest of the good things” His sacrifice on the cross redeemed us for all eternity. Imagine if that never happened and we were still following the practices of the Old Testament temples today, how different would our lives have been? Through God’s son, Jesus Christ, we were given a new covenant “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. -John 3:16”. Just as the angel announced to Joseph, the child bore to Mary would change the lives of many. The gift of eternal salvation was given to us through the birth of Jesus Christ. Sometimes this is a gift we take for granted. 
    This year while we get ready for Christmas and celebrate with our family and friends, let us take a moment to reflect of the gift that we have been given and share that love among others. Whether it is through small random acts of kindness or volunteering your time, whatever it may be it is through our actions that people see the love and mercy of God in our world. In this season of giving let us celebrate the greatest gift of all.      

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift you have given us so long ago that had redeemed all of humanity. We ask that this season we reflect on your word and let our actions spread the love and mercy you have shown us. Amen  


Thought of the Day
“Christmas is the day that holds all time together”- Alexander Smith 

Amala Joseph 
St. John’s MTC, NY

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