Monday,
December 23, 2019
MY GROWN UP CHRISTMAS LIST!
Phil 4:12
12 I
know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every
where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be
hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Phil 4:18
18 But
I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the
things which were sent from you, an
odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
Paul had experienced both adequacy
and deficiency.
He knew how to respond to both conditions with grace and thanksgiving. The word
“abased,” in verse 12 is literally humiliation and the word “abound”
literally means “to cram full.” He had visited both extremes and found God
residing at each place.
Christmas is coming and there is almost an urgent need
to have a need. I feel the pressure of it. I take pen in hand to write out my
wish list and am suddenly afflicted with writer’s block! I can’t think of
anything I need, and I can’t decide upon anything I want. I am full and abound.
I’ve reached the age that values
those things which can’t be wrapped in pretty paper and tied up with a bow. I cherish
the love of friends and kin. I never quite get enough of that. I’ll put that at
the top of my list. Next will be time. Time is that soft and unhurried space
without appointments or disappointments. Yes, this belongs on my list. I long
for a gathering of scattered family with laughter. I can’t find a box or bow
adequate for these things.
Phil 4:19
19 But
my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ
Jesus.
Dear Lord, I
am full of the gifts you have provided. Let me share with those who have
little. AMEN
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