In less than two weeks, we will be celebrating the birthday of Jesus. It is an event that divides history into BC and AD. It is an event that caused angels to rejoice, shepherds to wonder and worship, and wise men to bring gifts. It is a time of the year that is holy to us as Christians. It is certainly worthy of our celebration. The God of our universe has chosen to come and dwell among us as one of us.
He laid aside his royal robes in heaven and took on the unlikely garments of human flesh. A baby. God chose to become a helpless infant. Creator – depending and trusting the created for His sustenance and life. He would grow up facing all the struggles and joys of life. He would walk among us, see and respond to human need with compassion, face betrayal and death for us, and conquer the final enemy of death. Mind blowing reality. No one could have concocted a more incredible plan. Yet, He did.
As a result of what He has done, we can now enjoy a new relationship with God. Jesus is our brother. We can call God, “Daddy.” We can relate to Him now as his beloved children because our elder brother has made it possible for us to be adopted into the family. We are forgiven because of what He has done. We can relax in God’s arms and know that He really understands all that we go through. He in one of us. Fully human – fully God. God – with us.
Because of all He has done and all He is, I choose to bow before Him in this season and say “Thank you.” I long to receive every benefit (gift) He has come to impart. I choose to not dilute the incredible message of Christ with the pressures of a secular “happy holiday”. It’s Christmas. He has come. God loved the world so much, He gave His Son. Joy to the world! The Lord has come! Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing…
I say, “Merry Christmas”.