Born in a Barn: Jesus’ Messy Mission — Monday
Matthew 2:11b
Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts… (NIV)
Merry Christmas, friends! I hope your day is special as you remember our Savior’s birth today. Also, I hope you’ll love on family and friends, and celebrate the opportunity to open gifts together. In my mind, I can already see the sparkling eyes of excited children! We’re going to talk all week about various elements found in the Christmas story, so fasten your seatbelts and hang on!
Recently, I made a long list of things that come to mind when I reflect on the Christmas season: Gingerbread. Walnuts. Snowflakes. Brisk winds. Crackling fires. Joy. Children. Apple cider. Colors. Presents. Lights. Decorations. Candles. Silent Night. Reflections. Expectations. Family. Friends. Traditions. Baking. Traveling. Hope. Gifts. Movies. Music. Peppermint. Pine scent. Cinnamon. Wreaths. Trees. Fudge. Party mix. Caroling. Church. Hymns. Hot Chocolate. Stockings. Nativities. S'mores. Shopping. Traffic. Chaos. Stillness. Giving. Snowmen. Reindeer. Stories. Memories. Prayers. Gratitude. Flannel pajamas. Ugly sweaters. Wool socks. Rudolph. Smiles. Tears. Touch. Hugs. Feasts. Anticipation. Love. Thank you’s. And surprises. Yes, surprises galore! But most importantly, I think of the One God sent to Bethlehem on our behalf.
Remember?
He put skin on His Son and sent Him to live in an obscure country town.
He scheduled His death before His birth.
He chose a teenage girl’s womb to protect Himself.
He substituted a stable for a maternity ward.
He picked two uneducated teenagers to raise His boy.
He announced the birth of the ages to smelly, itinerant shepherds.
He used swaddling clothes (linen strips) instead of a soft, blue onesie.
And then, wonder of wonders… He reached out from a bed of straw… and embraced the world… which includes you and me.
The story of Christmas changed my life for time and eternity. How about you? Enjoy it all, friends. And by the way, if you know someone who's lonely, send them a note, an email, or better yet—make a phone call or reach out to them today. It may be the best gift you'll give this year.
I hope this is a wonderful and special day for you, and I hope you know that God thinks you’re special, too. Merry Christmas!
Monday’s Reflection
Read Matthew 1:18–2:12 today and reflect on God's plan to enter the world through a baby. In a million years, no one would have predicted that.
