Do You Recognize the King?
In my newsletter this week, I would like to share a story about my grandchildren. When Ashley and I became grandparents, our lives changed. Our hearts became a little softer, kinder and a whole lot bigger when we experienced the love of each grandchild. Now our love for our kids is no less, but the love for these grandchildren is different because they are an extension of our children which makes our hearts full. The day when the grandchildren were born is when our hearts exploded. We adore them so much! Every time they come over and we open the door they recognize us and run to us with joy and love. They see that their grandparents have something special to give and it’s a beautiful sight because they know there is security, love and stability through our relationship. Needless to say, they trust us and know that no matter what, we will accept them with open arms, support them and will always be that constant as they maneuver through life. The love that we have for these children is indescribable. In the next day or so, we will add another grandson to the mix - his name is Baker. As we wait in anticipation for his birth, we find ourselves excited, nervous and overjoyed to meet him. We know he will change our lives just like the others. Similarly, as we think about the Christmas holiday, we also celebrate the birth of another baby - Jesus. While His birth was over 2,000 years ago, I still find myself excited to celebrate His birthday each year. We recognize this important date for many reasons. First, we find stability through our time together in prayer, serving and praise. Next, we find constant love through the grace and mercy that He extends to us. Last, there is peace because he has given us an opportunity to forgive us through His sacrifice. Through all of these things, we can say we have an intimate relationship with Him that will forever change our lives. With this said, I never want to forget the importance of His day. Rather than center our attention on the lights, gifts and tree each year, we choose to concentrate on Him (Jesus). Though He came to this earth as a baby, He was the Messiah-fully man and fully God. His sacrifice would later take away the sins of the world. While we reflect on His life, it has brought many promises. One in particular says to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalms 34:14). Another resource that speaks on peace is the Tony Evans study Bible which states: “Only when we have been declared righteous by faith, can we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Tony goes on to say- “Humanity must live at peace with God and submit to His kingdom rule in order to achieve full peace.” So, I ask-where do you find your peace?
The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
Luke 2:11-12
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
When you celebrate Christmas do you focus on the presents or the Presence of Jesus (the ultimate gift)?
What does Christmas mean to you?
Who do you think Jesus came for?
How will He use you to make a difference in the world?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - When the time comes, will you recognize that it’s Christmas and we celebrate because “Born Is the King”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qf6OoAZbAQg