“Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2: 4-14
(I originally wrote this for Christmas 2015. A lot has happened since then but the fond memories that once were will be again.) As I look out my office window this Sunday night, I see our yard filled so bright. Santa and his sleigh, the lighted Christmas presents on display. Trees alive with light, long past daylight. Here our manger scene sits-Mary and Joseph waiting for the new born King Jesus to arrive. What a spectacle, what a sight, I know the real truth will come to light. For our grandkids know the crib is empty still, for Jesus has not yet come for a few more mornings chill. But on the day when Jesus was born, our grandkids will see the manger transformed. As the kids begin to open their gifts, it’s good to know who gave the greatest gift on the list. For God is love not just from high above, He gave us his Son and His Spirit as well, to live within us so we can share with the world our magnificent story to tell. Not all may be well, not all may be right, but may we all see the light. The heavens rejoice for the Son of Man has changed our plan. Jesus is our greatest of gifts, a gift that grows, not one to lay low. If you see someone who is hurting this time of year, share a little Jesus in his ear, lend a hand and give them hope, share the love that Jesus spoke.
“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17
Merry Christmas
Dana Cramer
Crossroads Church
