With Christmas only a day away, I wanted to pause and wish you all a Merry Christmas that is filled with God’s peace, joy, and grace.
I do realize, of course, that Christmas is not always perfect and jolly for everyone. My heart this season has been to remind myself and others that Jesus did not come for the perfect people and circumstances. He came for the broken ones. In fact, Jesus being born in a stable was no accident. God specifically selected a less-than-perfect setting for His Son to enter the world. Ever wondered why?
Scripture helps us understand that the place and conditions into which Jesus was born are symbolic of the spiritual poverty and need within us all. As 2 Corinthians 8:9 says, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”
The reality is, without Jesus, we are all paupers. And, no matter what our earthly experiences have handed down, God’s Christmas leaves no one giftless. At Christmas and every day thereafter, we can celebrate Christ coming to pay our sin debt in full. A debt we could never pay on our own.
Jesus comes to us all asking and offering, “Will you welcome me in? May I redeem and restore that stable of yours? I have so much for you!”
As I reflect upon the remarkable gift Jesus has given us, I realize that it is not meant for us to hoard, but to share. He entered a broken world and deeply ministered to others; we are challenged to do the same.
As Christians, we carry His Spirit – His love – His peace – His strength – His truth, and we know that our greatest calling is to reflect the One who lives in us.
Easy? No.
Possible? By God’s grace, absolutely.
Opportunities to do this may arise at the dinner table when the eggnog is spilled. It could be in the unwanted gift that is placed under the tree with your name on it, or when a friend shows up in her ugly Christmas sweater with an attitude to match. It could be when those unkind words are spoken by a spouse or loved one. But what better place to let the power of Jesus come alive than in someone else’s stable?
I pray that we are each reminded that it is not that we have difficulties or difficult people in our lives, but it is what we do with them that matters. Sometimes, the greatest gift we can offer someone is a bit of love, mercy, and truth in the middle of their bad day.
Lord, thank you for this beautiful reminder of Your love. When the tough, stable moments arise, please help us remember those are the moments Jesus died for; the moments which require a heavy dose of grace, mercy, yes and possibly truth spoken in love. Please give us wisdom and hearts of compassion that honor You. Let us be a reflection of Jesus for Your glory alone. We want the gift of Christmas to show up in our actions and reactions above all else. In Jesus name we pray.
Christmas blessings to you all!
Mary
