“Presence at Christmas” Luke 6, 27-31Just 20 days before Christmas, the world has lost a noble presence. Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first nationally elected president, has died at the age of 95. The AP article in the Whittier Daily News stated that he was “South Africa's first black president, who spent nearly 30 years in prison, and was a global symbol of generosity and sacrifice.” His death is mourned not only by many people in Africa, but by people around the world who see in him a man of extraordinary things, of forgiveness, of integrity, of sacrifice and kindness. received a lot of media attention. The honor and praise bestowed upon him brings me new reflections and spiritual insights.1) Praise due to Jesus Nelson Mandela was born and raised in the nation of South Africa, a country dominated by the practice of apartheid. This is a policy of strict separation of the races, black and white. The result was that much of the power, privileges and advantages went to the white minority in power. It was an oppressive practice that distorted the lives of both blacks and whites. Growing up, Mandela received an education from Christian missionaries. As a young man, Mandela joined those protesting the unjust practice of apartheid. When he became disillusioned with peaceful demonstrations and chants, he thought more forceful practices should be used. He was arrested and convicted of attempted sabotage against the government and ended up spending 27 years in prison. So why all this tribute? Mr Mandela had become an articulate symbol of the struggle for dignity, human rights and freedom of people in South Africa. As global pressure to end apartheid has grown over many years… the middle of paper… dissolves into one word: “Mary”. It was his name and it was the Master's tone. Incredible hope and joy poured into his heart. He's alive. He didn't leave. He's still talking. He is still active in this world, which is rightfully His. Let Jesus speak your name. He is the living Presence that can speak life to your world. Let Him love you. Let Him heal you and teach you to forgive. Let him into your life. Follow Him. These reflections I have out of the world's grief over Mandela's death: Thinking about The praises due to Jesus How powerful the ways of Jesus are when you put them into practice The constant presence of Jesus About Mr. Mandela, our president last week he said: “It no longer belongs to us, it belongs to the centuries.” But today our Bible tells us something more: Jesus is in all times and you can belong to Him. You will?