Once upon a time 2011 years ago, a baby was born. He was born in a manger because the inn was full. He was surrounded by animals and his crib was a manger....
This isn't a normal fairytale beginning, nor is it a fairytale. It is much better than that. It is the story of Jesus' birth. With 20 days till Christmas, the bustle of the holiday has begun and it is far too easy to forget this precious baby in the commotion of shopping and singing. Instead we remember "old St. Nick" and have "visions of sugar plums" dance in our heads. We get caught up in confusion, greed, and worry; while the poor child is forgotten. We are all hunting for the perfect gift to give and writing lists of all the goodies we wish to receive. We forget that the perfect gift was given to us already.
That baby was not like any other child. He came to live the perfect life and die a cruel death, just for us. We get hung up in toys and jewels; but in the end, are those things worth any more then the precious life that was sacrificed for your sake? We are so lucky for the love and grace that child brought us that cold winter night yet that is the first thing forgotten every Christmas morning while we unwrap gifts that we will forget before the year ends.
I encourage everyone this Christmas to not forget the infant whose birthday is the reason for all the lights and presents. Instead, keep remembering the ultimate gift that was given 2011 years ago. Don't keep this gift to yourself either. Spread the joy and love this year with everyone.
