 So many people have lost sight of this miracle. You would think that
the King of all Kings would enter this world in riches and pomp, but
He came clothed in humility. In the Bible come the words in
Philippians 2:5-7: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ
Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to
be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the
form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men." (NKJV)
The Apostle Paul is informing all that He (Jesus) made Himself
nothing, taking the form of a servant. In other words, He became as
much of an earthly servant as He had been a heavenly sovereign. As
we look at the Babe in the manger, we see Him wrapped up in
humility.We all, I would like to think, like to visualize the
Christmas story. We see the scene of Joseph and Mary at the inn, the
manger where the Babe was born, and we could never forget about the
shepherds who came to witness the event. I personally love to hear
the music and songs that are so inspiring at any time, but
especially at this time of the year. You know, songs like "Joy to
the World," "Peace on Earth" and my favorite, "Silent Night." It
seems these songs bring out the best in us. We are reminded of love,
caring, sharing and, most assuredly, hope! These pull us into the
real theme of the season. It is about a Babe being conceived by the
Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. It is about the only
begotten Son of God. He is described clearly in Isaiah 9:6: "For
unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government
shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful,
Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of
Peace." (KJV) That puts a smile in my heart and transfers it to my
face! God is so good!
However, it saddens me and I feel a heaviness and sense sorrow
because in our day and time, there are children and adults on this
earth who have no idea what the real meaning of Christmas is. Let me
be clear and boldly declare this great truth about Christmas and its
meaning. It is a declaration that Jesus is the eternal Son of God,
made flesh to bring redemption to all who will receive Him. You and
I can share this message and give hope to those who seemingly have
none.
Christmas is a time of the year that brings out the best in most.
It is a time when we know giving is such a blessing to others as
well as to ourselves. The greatest gift was given by God. We read in
John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life." (KJV) Thank you, Lord, for your love being
demonstrated! Think with me on this thought: The cradle was the
first stop on the road that was to end at an old rugged cross.
I love to hear about this great announcement in Luke 1:26-33:
"And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a
city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose
name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was
Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art
highly favoured, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among
women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and
cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the
angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with
God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a
son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be
called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him
the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of
Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." (KJV) It
still stirs me from when I was a young boy to now a seasoned pastor.
Such amazing grace is this gift just over 2,000 years ago to all
humanity!
[to top of second column] |
 On a personal note, I, too, love to see the joy and excitement on
my children’s and grandchildren’s faces as they anticipate the
opening of their presents under the tree. It is so heartwarming to
see the glow on people’s faces this time of the year, to witness the
love and desire to share with others. This all gives me hope that
people still care and value Biblical principles. Yes, Jesus is the
main reason for this season!
Let me return to my opening statement of my thoughts. Jesus was
born into this world in a borrowed stable. He was not born in luxury
and glamour. He was born in a manger. I read a thought in the Church
of God Evangel (Cleveland, Tenn.), our denominational magazine, and
it said this well: "As He grew, Jesus became a missionary like none
other. He did not just learn the language and culture of the people
He came to save. Instead, the Son of God became the Son of man.
Jesus did not simply sail to a foreign country; He traveled to a
different world. He did not only preach the Gospel; He became the
living good news. Jesus left the heavenly Father, knowing He would
not return to glory until He suffered and died."
We read in 1 Timothy 3:16: "By common confession, great is the
mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was
vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the
nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory." (NASB)
Enjoy this time of the year and deepen your understanding of our
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Do your best to share the message of
Christ, which is hope for all. Love deeply, smile, laugh and embrace
those around you with warmth and care. Be thoughtful and considerate
to others. Create special memories, and for those who have not
experienced the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus is waiting for you
with welcome arms!
Merry Christmas to all.
[By DOUG BOWERS Sr., pastor,
LifePointe Church of God]
|
