It's so strange... it doesn't feel like Chrsitmas.
For one thing, we've had unusually warm, spring-like weather up here in Philly. No snow, no yearly visit from Santa at our store. It feels as though people have even forgotten about it (and I am guilty as well).
I've been swept up in all the Christmas-like things - shopping, spending, wrapping presents, etc - but have forgotten about CHRIST (for whom we are to celebrate this season).
When God sat down and began to write this chapter in history (the birth of Jesus), there was no mention of Santa, or Black Fridays. None of mistletoe either. Rather, he penned the story of a little babe, born in a stable, who would restore hope to a lost world. He would be called "King of kings" and "Prince of peace." This babe, born of holy lineage, having the very DNA of God Himself was welcomed into the world with no fanfare or celebration, however. No, instead he was welcomed into the world in the most humblest of ways.
The head upon which a holy crown once lay rested not on silk but upon a thin layer of hay, poking and prodding Him as he slept.
The hands that would one day heal the sick and calm storms held no silver rattle, but lay open to the world, ready to embrace it and one day be pierced for it.
The ears that once heard all of heaven sing, now heard a chorus of livestock mooing and baaing through the night.
And the eyes that once beheld the loving gaze of God Almighty now rested on the face of a carpenter and his young wife.
The heart of Him, pure and holy still, never forgot the reason He risked heaven itself. He sacrificed royal spendor for ridicule and persecution. Comfort for pain. Even during those first few moments, as he adjusted to the candlelight, and the smells and voices in the stable, He knew His mission. He knew He would one day suffer the cross for a world that refused Him. He knew He would be labeled a lunatic, a heretic and a fanatic. He knew He would be laughed at and scorned; mocked as He hung on the cross. He would have to endure hell itself.
And the amazing thing is that He - knowing full well what He would face and what He would have to give up - came. And he did so willingly. He came for you and for me. He was born and died for you and me so we would know rebirth, restoration and life-everlasting in Him.
As we share in this holiday let us be reminded of this. With each gift we give/receive would we remember His gift to us all.
Merry CHRISTmas everyone. May you be gifted with His love and favor.
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