In Luke chapter 1 an Angel delivered a message to the aged priest Zacharias. In spite of his doubts, this man was to be the father of one who would prepare the way for the Savior. The birth of Christ did not just happen. It was planned and moved toward during thousands of years of human history.
Christ’s birth would occur regardless of the interference Satan cast out. Just as John the Baptist, son of Zacharias, was to prepare the way of the Lord, so should we still prepare the way in our own hearts. In the midst of our modern holiday symbols, shopping, and special services, so should we be getting ready for Christmas in a biblical sense.
Our first step in getting ready for Christmas should be to look forward to it. Too often, we wait to get in the mood. The Angel Gabriel did not wait until the after the Halloween, pre-Thanksgiving or the advanced Christmas clearance sale.”
In every case there was a personal preparation for the birth of Christ from Elizabeth, who would be the mother of John the Baptist to the wisemen who came two years later. Within the context of our scripture lays the importance of appreciation by all of us. Jesus divested himself of privileges and functions as the divine Son of God. (Hebrews 2:9)
Thinking of Christmas and shopping, we seek to give the perfect gift of clothing, boots, jewelry, cookware, dolls, games, and so many other possibilities. However, to the child. In our family., the best gift we can give is a heritage of a free, strong United States that still trusts in God. To the teenager, the best gift we can give is a clear pattern lived out before them of what is right and wrong. To other adults, the perfect gift is a camaraderie of caring.
This year, let us make the meaning of Christmas last beyond the few moments of tearing wrapping paper. There are yet majestic experiences for us to be had. As we recall the angels, dreams, songs, and prayers surrounding the birth of Christ, we must take care that the Manger scene has a direct connection in our spiritual lives to the cross and to the crown of Christ otherwise his incarnation would be insignificant. In our observation of Christmas, there is still something and someone to hold to. Christmas declares our direct connection with the Almighty God.
In a few days, it will be Christmas. In these coming days. Let us be more sensitive to exactly what Christ gave up and experienced for us at that manger scene.
Christian Writer 