Susan LaffertyChristmas approaches. Like a freight train. It’s that time of year.
Loud in commercials and sales. Glitz and glitter. Richly-colored wrapping and ribbons and bows.
Bright trees. Exquisite nativities. Christmas baking on point.
And the music. Playlists mixing winter themes and manger scenes. O Holy Night and a blue Christmas without you.
In the midst of it all? Hunger for something more.
Christmas prophecies. Read and proclaimed. Every Advent. Christmas Eve. Christmas Day.
Among them, Isaiah’s words.
“For to us a child is born,
to us a Son is given,
and the government will be
on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6
“I think this is why I’m here.”
We heard it more than once in Karachi. From expatriates on short assignments. With various companies. Consulates. Schools.
They heard about the international church meeting in our house. And came on Fridays for worship. Cross-cultural living in this “hardship assignment” made them stop and consider what’s crucial. In light of eternity.
Myrna* was one of those. The religious environment in Pakistan made her more aware of spiritual things.
When asked about her faith, Myrna replied, “I’ve always been a Christian.”
