“Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God” (Psalm 90:1-2).
Christmas is that wonderful season of the year when we give more attention to the birth of Jesus, the eternal God's love gift to us. He helps us see God as a loving Father. He invites us to partner with Him in His redemptive mission. He puts a song of salvation and joy in our hearts. He gives us His peace--not the absence of storms and difficulties, but an inner calm and assurance whatever our circumstances may be.
The Great Depression cast a long shadow over my childhood years, yet I have happy Christmas memories. Our celebration primarily related to family and church. On Christmas Day the whole family came to Grandma and Grandpa's home for a day of games, conversation, and dinner. At church we enjoyed drama, music, fellowship, and worship. We had no money to buy gifts, but we were rich in loving relationships.
Bettye and I were blessed with five children. As they began to leave home for school, work, or marriage, those who could make it came home for Christmas. On Christmas Eve or the morning of Christmas Day, we enjoyed a time of sharing that I have recorded. The number has included our parents, in-laws, grandchildren, and at times one or more guests. Each one gave a review of the year's journey. Following this came a time of praying and singing Christmas carols.
There has been one constant over the years: Jesus Christ, God's love gift of eternal life who has promised never to leave us alone and is preparing for us an eternal home where we can live with Him.
Vern Powers has been a member of First Baptist Nashville since 1972. He and his late wife, Bettye, were wonderful role models for Christian marriage to younger couples. Vern is retired from the pastorate after 30 years; the Tennessee Baptist Convention after 20 years; and Baptist Hospital after 14 years. Beloved and respected, he has served First Baptist as a deacon and as a member of the Personnel and Deacon Study Committees. His son Jerry is also a First Baptist member.
The audio version of today's devotional was recorded by Gary Beaty.
