2018 Worship Guide

Page 8 2018 Worship Guide LINCOLN DAILY NEWS Wednesday, December 5, 2018 Even today, loneliness and Christmas are connected. Go to a nursing home and you will find loneliness. “Will my daughter visit?” “Will my son call?” Go to hospitals and you will find loneliness there too. Now I know what I am saying is discouraging but many people during this time of year struggle with loneliness. Many people (especially at Christmas) feel unloved, or forgotten by God. Many will cry this Christmas because they had to say good-bye to a parent, or spouse, or maybe even a child. Many will weep as they decorate their tree or hang lights – if they are even able to bring themselves to do it this year. As Christmas approaches all the tinsels, trees, packages, parties, and presents, cannot overcome loneliness. Advertisers say the true meaning of Christmas is giving, but the terrible-time-consuming-crowd-fighting struggle to find the right gift sends the spirit of sharing into a tailspin. I get it – all of this is sad and depressing but there is good news – God’s Son changed all of this into joy 2,000 years ago. You may find it difficult to believe that but it is true – God’s good news is that Jesus is born for you. You feel like you are forgotten? Know this – God has not forgotten you. Unfortunately, Christmas time might bring with it arguments and animosities, but it is the baby born in Bethlehem who can unite. Do you have misunderstandings from the past and misgivings about the future? Remember, Jesus is always with you and because of that fact, nothing in all of creation, not even loneliness, can separate you from His love. Now you might still wonder, “If all this is really true then why do I still feel so lonely?” To your honest question I offer this honest answer – even though Jesus died to save you, Satan is working hard to keep you isolated from the Savior and the blessings His birth brought and brings. Each and every day Satan works hard to keep you isolated and alone. Every day he will CONTINUE