Our favorite time of year is here. It's Christmas time. The malls are crowded with people everywhere. The shelves in stores are about empty, and houses are illuminated with all the bright lights. Seems like everyone is so joyous and polite to each other, all because it's Christmas time. Shopping for the that perfect gift for that special person.
Then the big day is here, Christmas morning. The kids wake up around 6 a.m., and the parents have no choice but to rise and shine because of the joyful sound of the children after seeing all the toys and presents under the tree. We began to watch the children play with their toys and we began to open presents. Everyone is so happy they got what they asked for. So much joy and laughter in the house as family and friends gather with even more presents. Oh boy! It's getting late now, and time for that special holiday meal. Turkey and dressing and all the trimmings. We sat down and stuff ourselves to the point that everyone is sleepy, except the kids of course.
After a little while, mom began to wash up all the dishes and attempt to clean up behind the kids. Finally it's bed time. One child has fallen asleep in a box and one is in the floor with her head resting on her new teddy bear fast asleep. Dad picks up one and mom picks up the other, to bed they go. “Glad this is over and things can get back to normal.” Now which one do you think made that statement?
In spite of all the gifts that were opened, the next morning there was one that was never noticed. It was not noticed because it was not wrapped. The wrappings were left at the tomb when He arose from the dead. The perfect gift of all was born in Bethlehem in a manger. God sent us the perfect gift. The gift that keeps on giving. His name is Jesus!
He can't be wrapped and placed under a tree. He is too big for a box, too tall to stoop under a tree and too powerful to be contained till Christmas. Too often He is unnoticed because He doesn't look like a gift, but He is the perfect gift. God gave him to us for salvation. He can't be purchased, He's free to all who call on Him and receive Him. We can't wrap Him, but He can wrap us in His loving arms of mercy. While we were naked in our sins, this gift clothed us in His righteousness alone. Hallelujah!
That little gift who was born in Bethlehem in a manger is the only gift we need to survive this life. Without Him there would be no Christmas and no need to celebrate. I celebrate Jesus. He is the only mediator between God and man; He is the sun that enlightens; the physician that heal; the wall of fire that defends; the friend that comforts; the pearl that enriches; the ark that supports; and the rock to sustain under the heaviest pressure. He is seated at the right hand of the throne of the majesty on high.
Wow! What a gift to have. All you have to do is seek Him and you will find Him. Knock and the door will be opened to you.
Merry Christmas to all!