Advent Devotional - December 23

1 John 4:19

We love because he first loved us.

Reflection

Neuro-physicians have known for some time that good vocal vibrations give rise to small molecules in our cerebrospinal fluid which bathe and purify our brains.  It’s like a combination massage and metabolic waste removal system for the mind.  That means there is considerable therapeutic benefit for singing Christmas carols around the piano, and laughing out loud when family stories are shared after mealtime.
 
God purposefully created our physical “earth suits” to spark love together - a force that can transform everyone’s well being for the better.
 
Nonetheless, it’s not easy to be an instrument of His love when we are seated at the table next to our “unlovable family member”.  You know of whom I speak.  It might be the mother-in-law who makes us tense or the brother who could embarrass us.  Or perhaps it’s the cousin that is easily upset or the sister who is hard to please.
 
Challenge your “earth suit” to spark good vocal vibrations!  View your “unlovable one” as if he or she was the most important person in the room.  Draw them into conversation with kindness.  Exercise patience and convey expressions of joy.
 
I can tell you from my own experience that every time I have encountered genuine love, forgiveness, or grace, these things have come to me from God through other people.  God speaks to me through others, and God speaks to others through me.

Prayer

Change me, Lord.  Help me to discern the family member who needs your care through me.  Then make me a vocal instrument of your infinite love.  Amen.

About the Author

A native Chicagoan, educated geophysicist, and practicing financial analyst, Audrey Mitchell coordinates the Refugee half of our new Refugee & Immigrant Ministry team. She and her husband, Jay, joined PHPC in 2004.