Christmas

Let’s talk today about Christmas, because it’s just a few days away.

Christmas is a celebration that God came near to us so that He could demonstrate His love to us. This coming of Jesus is where we have hope. Christmas reminds us that hope arrived in person.

One thing I remember happening when I was little was that on Christmas morning, breakfast was made, and it was usually homemade biscuits, eggs, and bacon. This is something that I do every year as well. This is something simple, and my kids may not even realize this to be a tradition, but it’s such a good memory because after gifts are opened, we sit as a family and enjoy our morning.

This helps us slow things down and not get caught up in what could be, but what is.

Luke 2:10–11 says, “‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!’”

Then we read in John 1:14, “So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.”

Both of these scriptures encompass the coming of Jesus.

I remember one year we were going to a Christmas gathering, and we were supposed to bring white elephant gifts, and I totally forgot that we had to bring gifts. So I ran around the house trying to find anything that I could take as a gift. It was one of those moments where no one knows, but you’re still embarrassed. But hey, it all worked out okay.

Sometimes we have things in mind and how they should go, and sometimes it just doesn’t work out, so you really have to go with the flow and just let the joy of the season guide you.

Let’s walk with this in our hearts and minds this week — Jesus is my peace, my joy, and my reason for celebrating.

When people heard that God would send someone, a King, to save them, they took that literally. So when Jesus came quietly into the world as a baby, so many were confused — until they came to believe.

God’s work isn’t always done loudly and with big impressions. God works gently and personally.

Christmas is a good and simple invitation for us to remember God’s love for His people and draw near to Him.

Remember the importance of really knowing who Jesus is and the importance of Him coming here to meet us in real life.

Jesus is called Emmanuel, and that means “God with us.” That is exactly who Jesus is.

Let’s take a moment to pray.

Father God, thank You for sending Jesus to walk with Your people and for teaching us so much. Fill our hearts with gratitude, peace, and rest this season. Help us to know the depth of love You have for us as we think about the life of Jesus and the hope of salvation that He brings. Thank You, Lord, for Your love and for Your nearness. Amen.

A lot of emotions, memories, and thoughts come along with the holidays. We think of those who aren’t with us, we remember all the traditions, and we try to think of all the things that bring us joy.

This season, if you are struggling, remember that the Son of God was given for you and that you are never alone, no matter how you feel. God is with you. He is with you as you feel every emotion — the joy and the sorrow — and He will bring you comfort and hope.

I think of the many I have lost over the years, and I’m just so thankful that God is with me, reminding me that He is in control. With that, I’m filled with peace and comfort.

God’s greatest gift — Jesus — was given to us. He came so that we could live with hope, peace, and love.

Is there a certain part of the Christmas story that speaks to your heart this season?