You Needn’t Stay Poor

God lives and works today. He is truly all-powerful and he promises his power and his gifts to those who love him. This Christmas our hearts need not remain poor and empty.

The joy and happiness of Christmas need not disappear when the last decorations are taken down and the bills start coming in. But what must we do so that all the riches of God's love may penetrate our hearts and lives? The answer is in today's program by Basilea Schlink. Perhaps you have a crèche under your Christmas tree.

You may also read the good news about the birth of Christ and go to church. But is the child in the manger your most precious Christmas gift? Do you personally open your heart and home to him? If we are often oppressed, if we can't rid ourselves of our worries, ego or sinful bondages, it is a sign that we haven't given our whole heart to the child in the manger. We don't want to give up objects or people to whom we have become bound.

There is no room left in our hearts for the precious gift, the most costly present of God's love. Then we remain poor. But surely none of us wants to remain poor.

Instead, let us hurry like the shepherds to the child in the manger. The shepherds did hasten, we speed the same way. For none who seek Jesus, their quest should delay.

We hasten and press, his welcome is kind. The shepherds adored him on high. The child smiles at me.

Jesus only reveals himself to us as the most valuable Christmas present when we await his coming, when we need him so much that we lovingly watch and wait for him. Are you waiting for Jesus, for his coming? We need him, each one of us, for darkness covers the face of the world, demons rule the earth, sin is triumphing and causing mankind to despair. That's why you need Jesus who comes again today, bringing his light into the darkness.

He who is life itself wants to live in you. Yes, this Christmas Jesus wants to come to you. And in contrast to all the hatred and tensions of this world, to fill your life with joy and peace.

He asks you, receive me. Don't leave me standing in the cold as it happened long ago when there was no room in the inn. Expect me and nothing else for Christmas, for I love you and want to help.

Jesus, beloved child, for you I live now. All that I am and own to you I give now. Oh, sweet little child, beloved child.

You have been listening to a program written by Basilea Schlink of the Little Land of Canaan. To learn more about how God lives and works today, visit us at our website, www.canaan.org. That's K-A-N-A-A-N dot org. If you contact us, we would be happy to send you a free inspirational booklet.

If you do not have access to the web, please contact this radio station for our postal address. God bless you.