Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/909943
DECEMBER 25 20 "Whomever the Lord has adopted and deemed worthy of His fellowship ought to prepare themselves for a hard, toilsome, and unquiet life, crammed with very many and various kinds of evil." –John Calvin "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." —Galatians 4:4–5, NKJV T he holidays can be a stressful and difficult time for many people. This is especially true for singles and those who come from broken families like mine. One Christmas season, I was feeling very much alone and struggling with depression when I reached out for prayer. A fellow Christian took the time to learn what was troubling me and invited me to spend time with his family for the holidays. That compassionate concern and kind gesture was a lifeline for me that year. God sent Jesus into this world to redeem us, that we might receive adoption as sons and daughters of God (Gal. 4:4–5). We have been adopted into the family of God, and as such, are children of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:16–17). It is vitally important to remember who we are at all times. Even if our natural families are broken and dysfunctional, we have access, by adoption, to a wonderful family in the body of believers. We are never alone, and we have unique access to all of the riches of the kingdom of God. If you are feeling lonely and disconnected this holiday season, do not suffer alone. Pray and ask God to reveal someone with whom you can connect. Then take the bold step to reach out and let them know how you are feeling. Step out in faith, take a chance to connect with others, and do not isolate yourself. Alternatively, if you are blessed to be part of a healthy family or group of friends that enjoys gathering for fellowship during the holiday season, remember to be sensitive to others in your midst. There are people at your church, in your community, and at your job who feel left out of the holiday festivities this year. Perhaps you can reach out and invite them to join you for dinner or a family gathering. In doing so, you will be blessed beyond measure, because you are ultimately serving the Lord (Matt. 25:37–40). Debora Barr Site Director, Washington DC Campus Family Sorrows