Christmas is a time of restoration

Parson to Person

We find ourselves in the month of December. For many, this month is filled with family and traditions.

Most people identify December as one of the most happy months in the year. But for several, the holiday season spotlights many things that they do not have or people who are no longer in their lives.

Family traditions give way to empty homes and hollow greetings. Some find it difficult to find meaning in this joyous season. If you find yourself in the previous mentioned, frame of mind, I have good news for you. There is hope.

Christmas is a time of restoration. In the midst of darkness, we see the light.

When we read the story of the birth of Jesus Christ, we see that his birth was announced by angels to shepherds in the fields watching their flocks.

The savior of the entire universe was announced to common shepherds before Kings and Queens and dignitaries.

The world was in darkness and separated from God. But because of the birth of Jesus Christ, we now have restoration and hope.

Out of the darkness, light erupted. The shepherds, we’re frightened, because of the overwhelming presence of God in the midst of the darkness. This is where we find our hope.

In the midst of our dark time, we have the light that is Jesus Christ. He is there to guide us and lead us.

He knows our pain. He knows our struggle. He is there to help us.

The prophet Isaiah spoke of the coming Messiah With these descriptive words. Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Each one of these words describe the hope that we have. Wonderful, he is truly wonderful.

His plans for us are truly beautiful. Even though we can’t see him, he still is there.

Counselor, he is there to hear us and to talk to us and to help us work through our problems. He will help us work through our hurt and our loneliness.

Mighty God, he is all powerful. There’s nothing that can defeat him.

Everlasting father, not the type of father, who is abusive or has let us down, but rather the father, who is there to guide us, and lead us to love us, comfort us and discipline us.

The prince of peace, he is there to bring peace in a world of turmoil, in a life of chaos. He is hope. We do not have to be afraid. We are not alone.

Take heart this Christmas season and reach out to the wonderful counselor, the everlasting father, the mighty God, and the prince of peace. Let him bring joy back to your life.

If you’re looking for a holiday tradition, we would love to invite you to our annual Christmas Day Community Meal.

On Dec. 25 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Washington First Assembly in partnership with local businesses and individuals are hosting a community Christmas dinner. It is absolutely free of charge.

The menu will be a traditional Christmas dinner. If you would like to have a meal, you may dine in, carryout, or have it delivered.

Our in-person meal will be at Washington First Assembly located at 1602 E. Washington St. in Washington.

To make reservations or schedule a delivery. Please call our event registration line at 319-383-1880.

Leave your name and address, phone number, specify dine in, carry out or delivery and how many meals you need.

You may also email your registration at wfaevent@gmail.com Delivery is available only to residents of the city of Washington.

May your season be filled with purpose and joy.