Listen to the Music of Christmas
Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted
among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.1
My daughter tends to be a perfectionist and, during her time as a piano
student for many years, she often obsessed about getting every note right. She
was so determined to get her exercises perfect, that she would practice over
and over, groaning every time she hit a wrong note, until the song was
played perfectly.
On several occasions her piano teacher applauded her effort and accomplishment,
but also asked her to stop … and "listen to the music!" Making sure
the tone of each note was played correctly, and seeing that it was held for the
right count, was just as important as playing the right key.
Sound familiar? We can, like many of the religious Pharisees of Jesus' day, do
everything right—outwardly—but inwardly our lives are empty because we don't
take time to listen to the music—the music of life.
As we are in the Christmas season, let us make sure to be still long enough to
listen to the music, the Christmas music. I mean, hear the real message and
meaning of the Christmas season.
"For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given,
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end…."2
Suggested prayer: Dear God, amid the rush and bustle, amid the toil and strife,
please help me to be calm and peaceful throughout my daily life. Especially in
this Christmas season, please help me to be still long enough to listen to the
real music of the Christmas season—its message for which I am truly thankful.
In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.
1. Psalm 46:10 (NIV).
2. Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV).
Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.