In November of 2010, I found myself searching for a devotion book for couples. The reason for this quest was the upcoming first anniversary that our son and his new wife would be celebrating. Despite looking through countless shelves at bookstores and online sources, my efforts fell short of my expectations.
Although disappointed, my search wasn’t without resolution. I definitely felt the Lord calling me to write what I’d hoped to share with Ryan and Lindsey-and with other couples no matter where they were in their marital journey. So 2011 became dedicated to time in God’s Word and a determination to focus on those topics Christian couples need to be encouraged about, especially the hope the Lord offers for a new beginning each and every day of our lives!
Much of the spring and summer of 2012 has been spent editing and putting the finishing touches on this devotional, and now all of us at Sonkist Ministries are happy to share New Beginnings: Devotions to Develop the Greatest Romance with you. Here’s an excerpt from December, Time to Celebrate:
December 19th
Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news,
who proclaims peace! Celebrate your festivals, Judah,
and fulfill your vows. No more will the wicked invade you . . .
Nahum 1:15a
We attended another Christmas party recently and were reminded of why it is so much fun to celebrate. Friends laughed as they told one another jokes. Great food was served-and we had lots of good conversation while we ate around the large table. Afterward, we had a crazy White Elephant gift exchange, which generated more laughter that lasted long into the night. In fact, it was hard to leave even though it was getting late.
This season makes it easy to think about celebrating, but as we look through the Bible, we discover that our heavenly Father has always encouraged these joyous events. In addition to numerous feast days, He urged His people to “party” during other occasions, too. As Nahum suggests, good news is a reason to rejoice. Perhaps that’s why Christmas is so dear to us-we get to share about Jesus who was sent to us from God so we could be saved for all eternity!
What kinds of fun things do you have planned for Christmas? Have you set up traditions that are just your own? Is there some innovative way you can celebrate the birth of Jesus-perhaps getting involved with those who want to share the good news of salvation this season? How about throwing a party for family and friends-just because? You can also include some new people in the festive mix, especially those who need to know more about our wonderful Savior!
We praise You, Lord, for providing us with such great news! We’re saved-and we want everyone to know it!
We hope this new resource for Christian couples will be a blessing this season and all throughout the New Year. Merry Christmas to you and yours from your friends at Sonkist Ministries!
Thought of the Month
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2:8-14
