WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH JESUS THIS CHRISTMAS?
Many years ago in the countryside of Bethlehem the townsfolk prepared for just another day, though this day was quite extraordinary. The shepherds were out tending to their sheep and the Jewish nation was feeling the restraints of Roman oppression. Everyone was ordered by a decree to come and register within their hometown and this is what brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem.
The inns were full and there was no lodging to be found. The only unsettling lodging that Joseph could find for he and his pregnant wife was that of a stable. The town bustled with noise and the folk were scurrying about busily. What is it that the Jewish nation has been seeking for years on end! A Messiah, a Savior! Well, very quietly, tonight was to be the night for such a miracle!
Unbelievably, the time of birth was upon Mary; yet, the hustle and bustle of life marched on! In due time, Mary gave birth to a miraculous Child; one conceived of God. He was the Messiah, the Savior. You know we become discouraged when little attention is paid to days important to us (birthdays, anniversaries etc.). We have something much greater going on in Bethlehem; but, to most Joseph, Mary and the Christ-child were strangers to most! To tell you the truth; some people came to see this comely child; but, the few that did understood very little regarding the enormity of this event. Isaiah proclaimed “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Yet, there were others that had not the time for such a trifle affair!
As we enter this Christmas season and look back at the birth, crucifixion, death, burial, resurrection, ascension and enthronement of the tiny little Babe; who is now sitting upon the throne of heaven. How do we entertain such a stranger? In all honesty, who can fully comprehend God manifested in the flesh as such a small incarnated wonder! The truth is that God has made countless provisions for you and I this morning (atonement, reconciliation, redemption, justification, sanctification, glorification, the Word, the Holy Spirit etc…) and He really is no stranger at all. No, the Christmas question this year is this: What will you do with Jesus? May I challenge you to open your heart (entertain) the Savior this morning? Don’t miss such an opportunity as to entertain a Savior with true humbleness this morning!