We’re thankful for our followers and supporters – you – who are awakening to the many dangers, toils, and snares that exist for us in the day in which we live, and who are responsibly seeking to make preparations for what lies ahead.
There is much to learn from history, both modern and ancient. In a time of much darkness over two thousand years ago, a people were suffering under tyranny, eagerly awaiting salvation from their oppressors. And into that darkness, God shined a most marvelous light: He sent His own Son to take on the flesh of man and enter the world in utmost humility and confound the wise of that day.
The Savior came, but not as a outward conquering King to free the people from their political masters, but to show them how to live, and that belief in Him would bring everlasting joy. And that they would conquer their political masters in time – through love and sacrifice.
In our family, we take the tradition of gift-giving at Christmas as an opportunity to teach our children about the ultimate gift that God gave us – His only beloved Son.
Despite the tendency for Christmas these days to be focused on consumerism, the symbols of Christ are everywhere. Nativity scenes. Christmas trees. Candy canes. Lights everywhere.
Now that winter is officially here, and the trees are bare of their leaves, and we are in the shortest days and longest nights of the year, the lights remind us of the great truth in the story of Christmas:
In a time of great darkness, God sent His Son – the Bright and Morning Star – to be the Light that “shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
Not even to this day.
What is the lesson from this for us today?
That overwhelming power can come wrapped in a small and humble covering.
That the world is changed through changing people’s minds and hearts.
That great movements have small beginnings.
Take heart from the reality of these truths, and their pertinence to the challenges we face today.
We will not escape the impending collapse of a society bent on destruction by isolating ourselves fully from it.
We will not build a better tomorrow by hiding from the darkness.
We will only make a difference – for us and for our children – if we shine the light of truth on the darkness, and lead boldly by creating a hopeful future now.
This theme of bringing light to darkness is really what Beyond Off Grid is all about, and is incorporated into our film cover design.
As we settle into our homes for the winter season and dream of the spring thaw – the new life that will burst forth and the ability to plant our gardens once again – realize that it is because of God’s grace that the seasons continue their march and the sun’s light ceases not.
Remember that the Light God sent is the reason we can have hope.
Have a very Merry Christmas!
Peace,
Jason