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The story goes on to tell about the shepherds tending their sheep in the fields and having an angelic visitation announcing the birth of our Savior, "Christ the Lord". Then the most magnificent concert ever heard by man, a multitude of angels praising God and saying "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men".
We all know the story.....or do we? Is Christmas celebrating Jesus birth; God becoming flesh...or is it about Santa Claus, reindeer, magic, materialism and miracles? Hmmmmm, miracles? The greatest miracle of love happened two thousand years ago yet it seems the memory is fading, being replaced.
Yes we do give overwhelmingly to charities and we are probably more kind to each other at this time of year than any other time, but do we contemplate the real meaning of what we celebrate, why we give gifts and look for that Christmas miracle?
I am guilty of being a part of this frenzy we work ourselves into every year. Decorating, spending, partying, spending, glitter, lights, wrapping, spending, baking, sentimental Christmas movies, family, friends and expectations. Materialism to the extent of exhaustion. Then the disappointments; the gift wasn't right, the party wasn't fun enough, the decorations weren't glittery enough, can't eat enough, drink enough, party enough, whew! Then it is all over, it gets quiet, do we listen, do we have eyes to see or ears to hear our Savior gently nudging us and saying "In Me there is rest"?
Even in this economic time of crisis we still have not learned the value of slowing down, praying, praising and really grasping what happened the day Jesus was born. More than just a baby born, all of eternity was to be forever changed for mankind. God becoming flesh in the most humble way to communicate with us and feel our pain, struggles and temptations. All he wants is our fellowship. What do we give in return; denial, distortion of truth, fairy tales and distractions. Jesus wants to love, protect, comfort and guide us and all He wants in return is trust. Jesus gave all to tear the veil that separated us from God the Father, so that we might commune with our Creator.
This Christmas season, dust off your Bible, read Luke 2 or Matthew 2 & 3 and if you want to read the foretelling of Jesus life and purpose in the old testatement read Isaiah 53. Make the time to be quiet and listen to God speak to your heart. Let His love shine through your acts of kindness and giving. Remember we are celebrating the greatest miracle ever!
God Became Man, The second Adam to correct what the first Adam had destroyed - Communion with God!
May you find the peace that passes all understanding this Christmas Season and let your territory be expanded with others by sharing His peace.
Barbara
