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Embracing the Season of Wonder: Rediscovering Awe in God’s Story

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

As December approaches, many of us feel the familiar pull of the holiday season. It’s a time of festivity, gatherings, and traditions that bring warmth to the chilly winter days. However, it’s also a significant opportunity to pause and reflect—an invitation to rediscover the wonder and awe of God’s story in our lives. This December, let’s intentionally embrace a season of wonder by focusing on four key reflections: wonder in creation, wonder in God’s promises, wonder in the birth of Christ, and wonder in redemption.

A Season to Rediscover

The month of December is more than just the culmination of the year; it is an invitation to step back and see life with fresh eyes. Amid the hustle and bustle, we often overlook the divine work unfolding around us. When we intentionally focus on God’s story, we open ourselves up to a deeper understanding of His presence in our everyday lives.

Wonder in Creation

One of the first ways we can embrace this season of wonder is by reflecting on the beauty of God’s creation. From the intricate patterns of snowflakes to the breathtaking colors of a winter sunset, creation speaks to us of its Creator. As we step outside, let’s take a moment to notice the world around us.

In Psalm 19:1, we are reminded, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” This December, allow the beauty of nature to draw you closer to the heart of God. Take time to walk in the fresh air, marvel at the stars, or simply sit in silence and listen to the whispers of the world around you. As we do, we can invite gratitude into our hearts, thanking God for the wonders of His creation that reflect His character and majesty.

Wonder in God’s Promises

God’s promises are a source of incredible wonder. Throughout Scripture, we find countless assurances of His faithfulness and love. December can serve as a perfect reminder of these promises as we reflect on God’s covenant with His people.

Consider the promise of Emmanuel—God with us. Isaiah 7:14 foretells this miraculous gift, and during this season, we celebrate its fulfillment. The anticipation of Christ’s coming should ignite a sense of awe in our hearts. As we navigate our own challenges and uncertainties, let us remember that God is present, fulfilling His promises in our lives today.

Wonder in the Birth of Christ

At the center of our December reflections is the birth of Christ, the greatest act of wonder and love. The Nativity story is filled with miraculous events that invite us to be in awe of God's plans.

In Luke 2:10-11, the angel proclaims, “Do not be afraid; I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” The wonder of God entering the world as a vulnerable baby is a profound reminder of His love for humanity.

This December, let’s take time to contemplate the significance of the birth of Christ. How does this event shape our understanding of God’s character? How does it affect our interactions with others? As we celebrate Christmas, let’s focus not just on the festivities, but on the transformative power of Christ’s birth in our lives.

Wonder in Redemption

Finally, December invites us to reflect on the wonder of redemption. The story of Christmas doesn’t end with Christ’s birth; it unfolds into the greater narrative of salvation. Through Jesus, we are offered the gift of redemption, transforming our lives and our destinies.

Ephesians 1:7 reminds us, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” This truth is a cornerstone of our faith and a cause for continual wonder. As we meditate on God’s grace, we are reminded of the depth of His love and the lengths He has gone to restore our relationship with Him.

Living with Fresh Eyes

As we navigate this season, let’s challenge ourselves to see life through the lens of wonder. How can we notice God’s hand at work around us?

  • Worship and Gratitude: Allow your heart to be filled with worship as you acknowledge the wonders around you. Create space for gratitude, writing down moments of awe and reflecting on how God is present in your life.
  • Intentional Acts of Kindness: In response to the wonder you encounter, let it deepen your joy and lead you to share God’s love with others. Small acts of kindness can reflect the heart of Christ during this season.
  • Gathering in Community: Join with others to celebrate the wonder of God’s story. Whether through church services, community events, or family gatherings, sharing experiences of wonder can enrich our understanding and appreciation of God’s work.

Deepening Our Joy, Faith, and Expectation

This December, let’s embrace the season of wonder wholeheartedly. As we reflect on creation, God’s promises, the birth of Christ, and the gift of redemption, we will not only deepen our joy and faith but also heighten our expectation of what God is doing in our lives.

Let us open our hearts to the possibilities of wonder, inviting God to transform our perspectives. When we see the world through the lens of awe, we find ourselves more aligned with God’s story, experiencing the richness of His grace and love.

As we step into this season, may our hearts be ignited with anticipation, and may we carry the wonder of God’s story with us into the New Year and beyond.

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