Day 13 (23 Dec): C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S.
- Pr Lionel Neo (CPC)
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Read and Reflect:
10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. 17 The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
(John 10.10-18)
C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S.
What does Christmas mean to you?
They say it’s time to Celebrate! But fail to include Christ.
They say it’s time for a Holiday. But do not live in Holiness.
They say it’s their well-deserved year-end Rest. But do not Rejoice for what is given.
They look at themselves and speak of “I”. But not look at God the Infinite.
They say it’s time for Shopping Sales. But it’s really about Salvation brought near.
They purchase their presents and Toys. But not give Thanks for the best gift of all.
They gather and Makan in delight. But not Minister to the needy and poor.
They Accumulate the year-end bonus and spoils. But not Appreciate the Giver.
They Seek their own well-being. But not Share with one another.
If we only pursue self-indulgence, we only end up to lose.
Jesus says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
For He has come to give and to bring us back to the Father; a Shepherd who lays down for His Sheep.
Christ will return; will we listen to His voice?
C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S. has much meaning for all. But Christmas means nothing if we do not look to the Shepherd of all.
Reflection:
What does the celebration of Christmas mean for you?
Look out for the Christ this Christmas, and listen to His voice.
Pray and ask that we will worship and minister the way He leads us to.
Bethany Presbyterian Church English Congregation
Rev Jackson Wan
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