Dillon Community Church

Glory to God in the Highest

For the past 15 years, Christmastime has meant long work hours for me. It has been difficult to put aside the hassle and easy to get cynical about the commercialization of the “holiday season.” This is not a complaint, but personally indicative of misplaced priorities and a heart distracted from the true meaning of Christmas.

This year I am committed to spending more intentional time focusing on family and the hope, joy, peace, and love of Advent and Christmas. I want to enjoy the unique comfort and warmth of the Christmas decorations and take time to listen to Christmas carols that remind me of the anticipation and peace of Christmastime when I was a child.

This past year, I have watched my father struggle with memory loss, and I have watched friends struggle with serious illnesses and the loss of loved ones. The truth is, God has blessed me far beyond what I deserve, and I take his patience and grace for granted. Without Jesus, hope is a platitude, and peace is the absence of war. To those who are struggling for true purpose and shalom peace, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people…. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to (all people) on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:10, 14).

Bruce Butler, elder