Scripture for Today: Colossians 2:8 “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.”

It is amazing how the eye can be fooled.  This desert mirage looks as if there is water in the distance reflecting the landscape.  I can imagine the weary traveler hurrying his steps in thirsty anticipation.  What a disappointment to finally arrive and find nothing!  The light passes from colder to warmer air, bending the rays and mirroring the sky above.  The result is what looks to be a pool of water on the pavement.  The word “mirage” comes from Latin and means “to look at” or “to wonder at.”  We get our word”mirror” from this same root.  This makes sense as the reflected image is not real.

Today’s verse reminded me of a mirage when I read the words, “empty deception.”  Like a shimmering pool of water in the distance, the world’s philosophies promise much but deliver nothing.  When we base our thinking on what the world says is truth, we are deceived.  This verse says we can even be bound and captive to a system of thinking.  We are to be careful and see to it that we are not fooled.

My days make no sense to me without the Author and Source of life.  He calls Himself “Light.”  This Light is not the distorted rays that fool the eye.  He calls Himself, “Living Water,” and He does not disappoint me.  He quenches my thirst.  He calls Himself, “Truth,” and His truth is absolute and never-changing!

Thank you, Lord, that You are no mirage of wishful thinking!

Scripture for Today: Luke 2:7 “And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

It was an unusual nativity scene there on the corner of Eighth and D Street in Richmond, Indiana.  We celebrate the birth of Jesus today.  But as King of Kings and Lord of Lords it was a very humble beginning.  The town of Bethlehem was overrun with people as it was the time for census taking.  Everyone was required to register in their town of origin.  I can just imagine the panic Joseph and Mary must have felt when they realized there was no room available at the very moment she was to give birth.  The manger in a cave-like outbuilding would have to suffice.  What a missed opportunity for those who had turned away this special couple!

Today, there continues to be no room for Jesus.  He does not force entry into one’s heart.  He knocks at the door of our lives (Rev. 3:20) and awaits our response.  His desire is to take up residence and begin a life-long close relationship.  What a missed opportunity for those who turn Him away.

If I am honest, there are times when there is no room for Jesus in my affections or thoughts.  But when I give Him the room He deserves, He fills up my heart with Himself.  He brings with Him forgiveness and cleansing from all my guilt and sin.  He fills me up with His peace and love.  Nothing else and no one else can do that for me.

“O come to my heart, Lord Jesus.  There is room in my heart for Thee.”

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY READERS!