We are less than a month since Christmas. Because of the weather, some people still have their outdoor decorations displayed. Luke 2:39 is the final record in the birth and early life of Jesus. The excitement was over – or was it? Since the story of salvation does not have an end, neither should it be only a memory for us. Our aftermath of Christmas may be to clean up and put away, but we cannot just pack away real people as if they were mere ceramic figures. Christmas should be in our hearts the whole year anyway. So how should we act out the events of Christmas every month of the year?
Like the shepherds who returned back to their flocks in the fields, we must go back to our various responsibilities. Also, like shepherds, we must continue to praise God as we return to our routine lifestyle. In doing so, sharing the good news of God was what the shepherds did on their way home and what we must do at home, work, at play.
Jesus was two years old when the wisemen came to their house bringing gifts. They traveled many miles to reach Jesus. They considered the effort worthwhile. In seeking out Jesus, the effort is worthwhile to make him the central part of our lives. Because of the threat the king was intending toward Jesus, an angel appeared unto them telling them to take a different route home. We donāt have to stretch our imagination to say that when we have been in contact with Jesus our path must take a different route. The wisemen were richer not by what they had but what they gave away.
Mary and Joseph were profoundly affected by their experience to Bethlehem in the birth of the Christ child. The Bible says Mary pondered all these things in her heart. How good it would be if we did the same holding truths of God in our mind and spirit. Their professed faith took hold and reveal itself by Godās use of their lives. They had a sense of mission to accomplish. Theyāre not alone. In some way each of us have a special mission to accomplish in this world. Regardless of the circumstances in our life whether it be joy or grief, we will benefit most by paying attention to Christ.
The Bible says that for the next many years Jesus grew in spirit, wisdom, and grace. This is an opportunity and responsibility for all to grow in the Lord. It is up to us to be Godās lighthouse affecting the world all around us for the sake of each personās salvation that we contact. It is through us that peace and good will overshadow the trappings of this world. Nothing is said about Jesus for these many years until he was 12 years old. Likewise, within the proclamation and attention for us to serve God let it be in the seclusion of our daily lives.
Christian Writer 