Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Thanks be to God that His love for us was so great, that the Son of God gave up the throne room of Heaven and came to earth in the form of a little babe, as the God-man, to identify with His human creation, and save us from the power of sin and death through His later death and resurrection.

I love the humility with which the incarnation took place and what God tries to teach us through that. Christ born in a cave and placed in an animal drinking trough contrasts the pomp and ceremony demanded by the Roman leaders of the day. This reminds me that God calls us to serve and not “be served.” Let’s remember the place of humility as we gather with family and friends.

I also love how the angel went to shepherds in the fields nearby bringing “Good News of great joy” concerning the birth of Jesus Christ. These shepherds near Bethlehem were probably caring for the lambs offered for temple sacrifice. These lowly shepherds were the first to see Christ, (the better sacrifice), and they spread the word as to what they had seen and heard. Jesus also “chose” you and me to see His glory and know His Father’s love. How blessed are we!

Jesus doesn’t care about our status in this world, or about our sinful past. He called us and paid the price for our sin. Now we are children of the living God forever, with Good News to share with those we meet. With all the ups and downs of life we truly can still say to one another, “Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”

Whether you are travelling away on holiday or staying home these holidays ….

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.       

Num 6:24-26.