I LOVE CHRISTMAS

I love Christmas. I LOVE Christmas. I love the lights. I love the decorations. I love the Christmas trees. I love the presents. I love the food. I love all the hustle and bustle. I love that even though people are busy most of the time they are still in the Christmas mood, and the world seems a little kinder place for a while. I love everything about Christmas. But most of all I love that it reminds us that God loved us so much that he sent his only son to earth so that He would die on a cross for our sins. Jesus was sent here for that reason only. And had we not had a savior we would all be banished from heaven and would no longer have that incredible blessing of the promise of heaven.

Christmas is filled with excitement. Expectations of family and friends getting together. The tree with all of the twinkling lights and pretty presents underneath. Candlelight service and Caroling. It’s such an amazing season. If it were not for the birth of Christ, we would not have this promise of heaven.

It’s not always an easy season for many. Sometimes the time of year will remind people of those they have lost, who are no longer here to celebrate with us. Or people who are just too far away to get together with. But, if this is you, know that Immanuel, God with us, IS with you always. Ever since that young, weary mother settled into a barn, on a bed of hay near the animals to deliver our deliverer. They had traveled many hours walking, possibly riding a donkey part of it. Nothing in the bible says she had a donkey to ride. Either way, she was exhausted when they finally got to rest. In Luke 1:26 it tells the story of how the angel spoke to Mary about bearing the God’s only son. I am sure it was a shock to be asked. But Mary loved God and her response was quick. Luke 1:38 Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. I wonder if she could have imagined what would come next. The ridicule of the towns people for being unmarried, the long trip while being very pregnant. Giving birth in a barn, followed by years of wonder while he grew. Then I am sure she was incredibly proud of this son who was perfect. Yet, we know what is coming. It’s a good thing that she did not. How could you bear knowing what your son was going to endure, for all of humanity. This Christmas, while you are enjoying the season, the lights, the food, remember WHY. Remember that God knew when He sent His only son to earth for our salvation. He KNEW what Jesus would have to endure, but He loved us that much. So, this season, let’s remember to be grateful. Try not to dwell on the things you may not have this year, but on the hope that lays in the manger. Because it truly is the only thing that matters.  Amen.

Shirlene Peterson