I recently heard a story from the Bedouin community—an ancient nomadic people in the Middle East—that gripped my heart.
One day, two young men got into an argument that escalated into a fight. In a tragic moment, one struck the other in a way that accidentally led to his death. This community holds firmly to the principle “an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth,” which caused the young man who killed to instantly be struck with fear.
But he knew there was one way he could possibly save his life.
He went to the tribal chief—called a sheik—and begged for asylum. According to their custom, a sheik could grant protection until it was determined whether the motive behind an act required death. The sheik heard the young man out and agreed to shelter him.
Soon after, some people approached the sheik’s tent with urgent news. They told him the young man he was protecting had killed another, and they wanted him turned over to those already prepared to take his life.
The sheik replied firmly, “No, I’m granting him asylum.”
“You don’t understand, sir,” one of the men responded. “The man who was killed—that was your son.”
The sheik’s face went white. He grabbed the tent pole to steady himself, but his knees buckled anyway. He fell to the ground and wept uncontrollably.
Then, after several minutes, he rose to his feet. Through a shaky voice, he said, “I would have to betray my conscience to have this young man killed. I will raise him as my own son and offer him all the rights of my other family members. That is the best thing for him—and for me.”
What an incredible story of redemption! It so accurately represents the heart of our Father, who gave His Son so that our lives might be spared. (John 3:16)
Christmas is the perfect time to receive that redemption, because it’s the very reason Jesus came. When we do, the Bible says it leads to three powerful blessings.
First, it causes longings to be fulfilled. Psalm 84:4 says, “Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.” When we live in God’s presence, the deepest desires of our hearts find their satisfaction.
Second, it provides strength to succeed. Philippians 4:13 declares, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” When we receive His salvation, we receive His power to overcome every challenge we face!
Third, it leads to fulfillment that can only be found in helping others. In Matthew 10:8, Jesus says, “Freely you have received; freely give.” When we receive His goodness and live at peace with Him, we realize we’re called to share that goodness with every person we encounter.
Friend, wherever you find yourself this Christmas, know that there is redemption for you. God so loved YOU that He gave His Son. That is a reason to celebrate! Merry Christmas!
