The spirit of Christmas has changed subtly over the years. What was once a time of giving and family renewal has become a time of seeking to impress and to gain. In a world too busy with the glitter and the trimmings it is easy to miss the message of the season.

What a tragedy it would have been if the shepherds had marveled over the star and the choir of angels but missed the babe in the manger.

The greatest gift has been given; all other gifts are secondary.

Secondly, I believe that the Lord wants us to lay hold of a “spirit of renewal” as we come into each new year. To renew means to revive, to make new, to make fresh or vigorous, to become rejuvenated. How we need all of those things! They are so important if we want to run well. I believe that the Lord wants us to not only become refreshed physically but to be renewed in our relationship with Him and with others. Just like the shepherds, we need to take the time to go and search for Him.

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