“On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…eight maids-a-milking…” Being a milkmaid was considered one of the worst jobs you could have in England during the time period this song was written!
But Jesus was never one to shy away from a difficult job. He cared as much for His servants as He did those of royal blood. These milkmaids remind us of the eight Beatitudes that Jesus used to describe the way that we are to live, caring even for those who are poor in spirit, those who mourn, or the meek.
These Beatitudes teach us how to live a Christian life and they are…
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the
kingdom of heaven.
What a beautiful set of rules to live by.
Day 8 Action: Offer to help someone with a chore or job that needs to be done, whether it’s someone in your home or a neighbour. It could be mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, folding a load of laundry – anything to serve.
For the “Story Behind These GIfts” click here
For Day 1: A Partridge in a Pear Tree click here
For Day 2: Two Turtle Doves click here
For Day 3: Three French Hens click here
For Day 4: Four Turtle Doves click here
For Day 5: Five Golden Rings click here
For Day 6: Six Geese a Laying click here
For Day 7: Seven Swans a Swimming click here