I’ve had a mini rose bush in a corner as I go out my back door for several years. I can hardly believe it is still blooming even after all the cold and the snow. I call it, “My Christmas Rose.” What a beautiful blessing!
Christmas is only days away and how different it will be for many of us. We long to be with family and friends; we miss our church family and the Christmas programs and the fellowship that goes along with it. But Christmas is still Christmas and the Christ of Christmas has not changed.
Born in a manger (that little “rose” from heaven) brought hope and joy to a dark and sinful world. The color itself (red) reminds us of just why He came. He was and is the Savior of the world and He came to shed his blood on the cross for our sins some 30 plus years later. But let’s not forget the thorns. A crown of thorns was placed on His head and He was beaten mercilessly; willingly taking all the punishment we deserve upon Himself because He loves us.
There’s beauty in a rose, but there are thorns that go along with it. Because of the beautiful life of our Lord Jesus Christ; we have the hope (the “assurance”) of ever lasting life if we have trusted Him as Savior and Lord. Yes, we still have “thorns” in our own lives; but no matter what kind of a “thorn” you are experiencing today, keep trusting the Lord. He will see you through.
Christmas may be different this year, but always remember Jesus NEVER changes. Jesus NEVER fails!
There’s a song I used to love to sing many years ago, “Beautiful Savior.” Here are some of the words:
Beautiful Savior, King of creation, Son of God and Son of Man!
Truly I’d love Thee; Truly I’d serve Thee, Light of my soul, my joy, my crown!
Fair are the meadows; Fair are the woodlands, Robed in flow’rs of blooming spring.
Jesus is fairer; Jesus is purer; He makes our sorrowing spirits sing!
Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor, Praise, adoration, Now and forever, forever more be Thine!
Jesus truly is a Beautiful Savior. He is truly MY CHRISTMAS ROSE!
Is He yours?