The Seventh Day of Christmas by Loralyn Smith
There have been so many ways throughout my life that Christ has been very present to me. I have often felt him closest when I’m in nature, whether in a wooded trail nearby or sitting next to the sea in far away places. In those moments when I have quieted myself completely, I have experienced true joy in feeling His presence in such a real way that it has brought tears of joy. But I have felt him equally close in hard times through the hugs of friends, the gift of surprise coffee deliveries, emails of support and care.
In reflecting on how Jesus has shown up for me in my current season of life, I realized that for the past year, I’ve felt constantly rushed and pulled in many directions. Even in this busy-ness, there are so many ways that Jesus has continued to sprinkle reminders in my days of his presence, renewing both my joy and hope. Lately, it has been in the small things like the spontaneous conversation with a neighbour who is new to Canada that led to a trip to the market to discover cuisine from their home country. Or the neighbour who has become like family that pops over to borrow an ingredient for her Christmas baking and always brings a smile to my face as I’m grateful for the ease and comfort of our relationship. Or the conversation with a colleague about how we have seen God leading a project to an end we couldn’t have dreamed of. Or the friend’s daughter that can’t wait to call me to share her college acceptance news because she knows I will squeal with delight at this accomplishment.
Even when it’s hard to pull my eyes up from the busy of life, God has been faithful in sending me reminders in this season to embrace the hope that Christ brings and to receive his joy by celebrating with gratitude the blessings he pours out all around me.
You can find a downloadable PDF of this reflection here.
Each day, a new reflection will drop here. We hope you enjoy them and reflect upon, experiencing the presence of Christ in this season.