“And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.”~1 Peter 1:17-21 ESV
Christmas is known for being the most wonderful time of the year. Though I personally feel there is so much to love about it, I also know that for some, it may not be so “magical” and instead a pain point for various reasons due to challenging circumstances or relationships. I had one of these holiday seasons myself just a few years ago while walking through some deep loss and grief. I remember wanting to put my head down and hide from the world, hoping I could resurface when it was all over. However, I also remember what was most valuable and important was illuminated and what wasn’t- fell by the wayside.
The other night, as I was putting my six-year-old to bed, we had just finished reading a Bible story when we began a simple yet inspiring conversation that left me lingering over it for the following few days.
“Mom, Jesus has miracle blood!”
Silence. Contemplating.
“He sure does! What makes you say that?”
“Because Jesus has all the power and did all kinds of miracles.”
“Uh-huh. Why did you call it that specifically?”
“Because God put magic miracle stuff in his blood!”
“Wow, I love how you said that, buddy! That is so profound and true!”
Sweet friend, wherever you find yourself this Christmas, the miracle of Jesus’ blood exists to bring you the magic and hope found not just in a sentimental season that comes as quickly as it goes but is found through Him, an innocent-perfect babe turned man, intentionally born into a sin-filled humanity amidst us, because of us, despite us, and for the rescuing of us all. He is the one who always remains. Steadfast. Unchanging. Secure. God’s gift to us and God’s presence with us!
No matter what we are facing, as my son so perfectly expressed, this magic-miracle blood was shed for both you and me! Our hope is that the true magic in this Christmas season is dependent upon nothing or no one else but the miraculous wonder of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. May you unwrap this truth and treasure it today and always, sweet Mama!
Merry Christmas With Love,
Krystle Gray & The Help Club for Mom’s Team
Some life-giving things that currently bring me joy are alone time with Jesus, mocha-pistachio lattes, charming coffee shops, an occasional good book or scenic hike outdoors, or anything artsy-fartsy, but especially the sound of my kid’s laughter bursting forth, or sharing a delicious meal and heart-to-heart with my sister or best friend.
I would love to be an influential part of God's restoration in the lives of broken people who are unseen, overlooked, destitute, and the "outcasts" of our world. However, Jesus first continues to show me how needy and broken I equally am without Him, and that He desires to set me free through his waves of beautiful healing, love, and restoration.
- Meet the Team: An Interview with Deb and Krystle Gray - June 9, 2023
- The Sweet Fragrance of Friendship - April 21, 2023
- His Eyes of Compassion - March 9, 2023