What the patriarch did early in the morning after family festivities, it's wise for believers to do for themselves before resting tonight. During household gatherings, we can easily slip into sinful behavior, forgetting our Christian identity. This shouldn't be the case, but often our festive days become times of unholy mirth rather than sanctified joy. Joy should be pure and uplifting. Holy gratitude should cleanse us just as grief does.

Sadly, our hearts show that mourning often benefits us more than feasting. Reflect, believer: How have you sinned today? Have you forgotten your high calling? Have you indulged in idle words? Confess these sins and seek the sacrifice that sanctifies. The blood of the Lamb cleanses our sins of ignorance and carelessness.

Ending Christmas by washing in this cleansing fountain is best. Believer, come to this sacrifice continually. It is as good tonight as it is every night. Living at the altar is your privilege as part of the royal priesthood. Even great sin is no cause for despair, for you can draw near to the sin-atoning victim, who cleanses your conscience of dead works. I gladly end this festive day, holding tight to the altar's sacred place. My sins are washed away; the Lamb has borne them all.