That Star

That Star

Like everyone else, I have been very busy recently. In fact, I missed writing 2 devotions in a row. I have been just as distracted as anyone else even though I promise myself every year that I WILL focus on Jesus this time of year. I still get caught up in all there is to do. I want to bake cookies, shop for presents, wrap presents, decorate the house, which I usually have all done by now. When I was younger, I would have been upset with myself because it wasn’t done. I felt that I needed to create this beautiful atmosphere for Christmas. And yes, it is nice, but let’s face it, that stable where Jesus was born didn’t have one twinkle light, not one Christmas tree, not one ornament, not one cookie or even a Kringla! Jesus was born in a dark, smelly place where animals lived. That’s a far cry from anything my children (or grandchildren) every experienced.

I wonder if Mary was cold, or wished her mom was there with her. I wonder if she worried that her baby would be warm enough. I wonder if she worried that she was doing all of the things moms are supposed to do. New parents are always a little nervous. Poor Joseph, we don’t read much about him, but he sure had a tough task. 

In spite of all of the hardships they endured during the trip, and in the stable, I imagine that the stable that night, with that incredible star that the shepherds saw and angels sang about, was the most joyous place on earth that night. The bible says the angels sang but I envision them singing all night as they celebrated. If Elizabeth's baby jumped in his mother’s belly, just at the presence of Mary with child, how much more would the angels thrill at the baby Jesus birth?

The birth of Jesus is truly miraculous! From the divine conception to the reason He came. His life was humble from the start so that each of us could relate to Him. He lived a life of temptation and pain like we do. So that we can realize that He understands our cries to Him.

So this Christmas, take a little quiet time to reflect on this gift….. and Thank God!

Thank you Lord, Jesus is the most amazing gift we could receive at Christmas or any time! Amen                                         

Shirlene Peterson