“Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. “ – Jeremiah 15:16

 

Do you have a favorite Christmas cookie?

 

Hands down, my favorite Christmas cookie of all time is the “thumbprint cookie filled strawberry jam.” These cookies win by such a large margin that the rest of the field isn’t even close. When I eat them, they are like joy to me. The combination of the soft cookie dough surrounded by a dull almond crunch that is topped off with a tart punch of strawberry goo. Come on! Now that’s Christmas living right there.

 

One bite takes me back to my childhood. It takes me into the kitchen where my mom had us prepping cookies to the beat of “Jingle Bell Rock.”  Not surprisingly, she did most of the hard work; but my sister and I always got to press the thumbprint into the cookie just before they went into the oven. And then we’d wait, staring into the oven, because the best way to eat them was to top them with jam fresh out of the oven.

 

Christmas is now less than two weeks away and soon my parents will be here for a visit.  If this year is like others, my mom will show up with a tin filled with nostalgic joy.

 

Whatever Christmas cookie or food brings you joy, I hope that you might think of the verse above as you enjoy them. “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became a joy and a delight to my heart.”  Is God’s Word a joy and delight to you?  When you read and “eat” His Word, does it remind you of God’s goodness? Does it raise a secure sentiment in your heart for the strength of God’s character?

 

This week, we come to Numbers 20; and we are going to gain strength in the precision of God’s Word. Take some time to read the text and notice that God’s words are clear, authoritative, and true. And while you may not see it at first read, it’s important to note that a fuller reading of God’s Word will resolve any question you may have about the love the Lord feels towards Moses and the joy Moses will ultimately feel in the end.

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Loved & sent with you,

Pastor Jerry