Monday, December 12, 2022

Almost Christmas

 




2022 will soon be in our rear-view mirror.  What a busy, chaotic year it has been. And now two weeks until Christmas.

We’ve been saddened by numerous funerals of people close to us and excited by engagements and weddings of grandchildren. Every time the phone rings, we wonder what new thing has happened.

The first Christmas was filled with good and bad news too. Jesus and Mary heard “no room at the inn” more than once. Exhausted from the long trip to Bethlehem, they settled in an animal stall where Mary gave birth to Jesus.

Who brought the fried chicken and casseroles? Where was the decorated nursery and crib for the baby boy? Nobody took pictures and posted them on Facebook. Joseph’s family just did their best to stay warm and comfortable.

God was full of surprises on that first Christmas. He showed out in a big way—the heavenly host of angels illuminated the sky where shepherds tended their flock of sheep. Their mission—go find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. What joy they felt upon seeing and worshipping the newborn king.

When Jesus was around two, God showed up again by sending three Magi from Eastern countries to deliver gifts. After worshipping Jesus, they returned home a different way to escape the hand of King Herod. The gifts provided the means for Jesus’ family to flee to Egypt to escape the murderous rage of King Herod against all toddler boys.

With many obstacles to overcome, Jesus arrived in human form to experience all the joys and sadness that we experience in this life. How very thankful I am that He was born filled with grace and truth.

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We have seen his gory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

Merry Christmas