Whether it be a birthday or Christmas we all like gifts. Have you ever heard these words from a child or spouse, “I want one of these, and one of these, and …”? They go on and on, turning the pages of a catalogue. We all have our wants and wish lists. The problem is that what we want is seldom what we really need and it’s not always good for us. Too often our wants reflect our selfishness and greed.
Humans have a hunger that cannot be satisfied apart from God. We may try to fill that gap, but our soul’s longing will remain. The author of Ecclesiastes realises that all our pursuits, things, pleasures, even wisdom and work are meaningless without God. We are created by God and for God. To live apart from God is emptiness.
In the scriptures, Zechariah praises God not because God fulfils a wish list but because God meets our deepest needs. Zechariah’s song is a litany of praise for God’s redeeming work.
Today, though we alienated ourselves from God, God has come to us. Christ has redeemed us, purchasing our freedom from the slavery of sin. Jesus saved us from our enemies. God has kept his promises and remains faithful to his people. Jesus has made us holy and righteous. Our lives are filled with meaning and purpose as God empowers us for service.
Join me in saying Thank you Lord Jesus.
Praise be to the Lord … because he has come to his people and redeemed them (Luke 1:68).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, forgive me for pursuing my wants with greed and selfishness. Father, help us to focus our lives on you, as we praise you for meeting our deepest needs. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
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Godinterest Community Fellowship is dedicated to proclaiming Christ and set apart to save and empower lives. Sign-up to receive inspiration to draw closer to God each day.
Our Location: The Advent Centre, Crawford Place, London, W1H 5JE
Regular Meetings Divine Service: Every Saturday from 11:15 AM
