O Holy Night

2002 Advent Devotion Collection

December 9
READING: Psalm 139.1-12

Even the darkness is not dark to you, the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you. Psalm 139.12

Since we moved to the country a few years ago, I have experienced many of nature's changes, especially in the landscape.In summer, the crops growing close seem to eliminate the spaciousness. After the harvest season the fields stretch out and vision is lengthened to take in a panorama of farms at a great distance. When winter emerges and snow blows and drifts, it blocks the vision of our neighbors' farm buildings and homes.

One storm of note brought snow and blowing all day and into the night. When we retired for the evening our electrical power in the area had failed. The lights of the farms around were missing and darkness reigned. I felt so alone and isolated.

During the night I was awakened by the sound of our heating system operating. When I walked to the window the moon and stars were predominant. The lights had returned to the farms and towns around and what a closeness I felt. Calm had resumed. I felt the words of the song "O Holy Night" were reality.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Help us to be ever mindful that the gift you bestowed upon us on that Holy Night of long ago is our ever present help in the trials of life. Amen. -- Emily R.

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Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
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