O Holy Night

“I tell you the truth, if anyone keeps My word, he will never see death.” – John 8:51

Jesus spoke the above mentioned words to the people in the temple so that they might know the truth.  Keeping His word means not just hearing or knowing it, but being obedient to what He asks.  Following Him is the first step of faith necessary to overcome spiritual death.  He promises that all who believe, will receive eternal life with Him.  With our celebration of His blessed birth, but a few days away, the following is what found way onto the page as my personal reflection to what I read in John this morning.

O Holy night,

when sin and fear took flight.

image by Rick Larson

The Savior born to us,

to cover our wrongs with right.

Sinless did He live

His life, the everlasting light.

Heaven came to earth,

upon that sacred night.

Death upon the cross,

faced every shame and sinful plight.

Empty tomb displayed,

the wonder of heaven’s might.

Heavenly ascent,

returning to the Father’s right.

Spirit sent to us,

as our loving, guiding Light.

Glory to our God,

for that blessed, holy night!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You made a way – by leaving heaven for earth, giving up perfection and peace for chaos and discomfort, for each and every one of us, individually – to come to know You and spend eternity in Your presence.  Thank You that though we do not deserve it, You give.  Forgive us for not readily receiving Your word and putting it into practice.  Teach us to trust Your truth and to allow Your Spirit to change us from the inside out.  May our lives bear evidence of Your light living in us so that many may come to know You.  Lead us to love well and to be ever grateful for the grace that has guided us unto You.  Thank You Father, for that Holy night that made coming close to You, possible.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present