Rick and I just enjoyed one of our yearly traditions: watching “Ben Hur” (1959 with Charleton Heston) based on Lew Wallace’s novel, Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ published in 1880. The movie never fails to make me cry – several times. This version earned 11 Oscars, and still stands as one of the best movies ever made. It also has a special place in our hearts because Rick had just returned from Vietnam in 1968, and seeing the movie (with his parents) was our first date. It was also the first time he held my hand. One year later, we said our vows.
As Rick and I sat together and watched the movie today– for the 47th time, we both shared the same awe at the amazing love God has shown us. We have had our personal battles over the years, as individuals and as a couple. We came close to throwing in the towel before we cried out to Jesus for help and decided to make Him the center of our lives. And everything changed, from the inside out. We continue to give daily thanks to God for sending our Savior.
That’s what I want to say to you this Christmas. Wherever you are in life, whatever you’re going through, good or bad – remember! God sent our Savior who is Christ the Lord. Jesus was born to be a living example of God’s infinite, unfailing love. He was born to live a perfect, sinless life and become the spotless lamb sacrificed for our sins. He died an excruciating death on the cross so you and I could be cleansed of all our sins and be made new through faith in Him.
Jesus is God’s gift to you and me – and to all humanity.
Praise the Lord!