Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

his love endures forever.

Psalm 118:1 & 29 NIV

For some reason, at Christmas time we feel the need to prepare all sorts of decadent sweet treats. Homemade cookies, candy, cakes, and pies adorn kitchen cabinets and tables, many even used as gifts for friends and neighbors.

Consider the pie. Some have a crust at the bottom with a filling and maybe a meringue on top. Others are made with a bottom crust, ooey gooey sweetness in the middle, and another crust on top.

Psalm 118 reminds me of a two crust pie. It begins with giving God thanks for his goodness and tells us his love is forever. It ends with the very same verse. And, in between lies all the sweetness.

The psalmist discusses God’s presence in our lives – how he is always with us as our refuge and strength, our very salvation. Then we read about the “cornerstone.” This cornerstone is not a what, but a who. Way back in in the Old Testament, God prepared us for the coming of our Savior. The who is Jesus. Right in the middle of our scripture pie we learn about Jesus.

The goodness and sweetness of God’s Word prepares our hearts for him. It draws us to him. It brings us good news of salvation. We easily find the true meaning of Christmas right there in his Word.

As we indulge in a few sweet treats this season, let us also indulge in God’s Word -- not nearly as many calories as a pie, but filled with such satisfaction to our souls.

God, You are good. Your love surely does endure forever. The birth of Your Son gives evidence. Prepare our hearts to experience You this Christmas season.

Susan Partida