Christmas Let-Down
Most of us build up to Christmas! We buy presents, do the cooking, house cleaning and decorating. This year is different. Even if we did the decorating, present buying and house cleaning, we weren’t supposed to have parties or large get-togethers. Our tendency is to build toward huge events, but things are different with the pandemic. This year, we have been deflated and are supposed to stay home.
Our scripture today, Luke 2:13-14, tells us about the angels announcing Christ’s birth. As they praise God, they remind us of the truth that because Jesus was born, God’s people have the opportunity for peace and favor from God. The good news did not end in the stable – that was just the beginning. Jesus came in the tender state of a newborn! Mankind just had to wait as the story unfolded over some thirty years. The wise men found their way to the baby. Simeon and Anna went back to their everyday lives, though strengthened by the promise they had witnessed. Mary and Joseph went about their daily work of making a living and raising an infant.
Life happens between the high points. Most of life happens in the normal work-a-day routine. No matter how mundane life seems it cannot touch the truth that Jesus has come in the form of a baby to save the world. Because he was born and lived a sinless life, dying as a sacrifice – we can enjoy the peace of God and enjoy peace with God. Because the baby came for each of us, Jesus came so we can walk in His favor every day. He was not received in the inn. He was not received by high society, but He was received by the shepherds.
John 1:12-13 says, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” Today, if you are experiencing the Christmas let-down – lift up your eyes! The reality of Christmas is that we can walk in peace and favor with God!
Prayer – Lord, I pray for everyone dealing with disappointment or depression. Touch all of us with the truth of your birth. Unfold the mysteries of the manger to the cross in our hearts! Amen!
Luke 2: 13-14 – “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’”
By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Image: Adobe iStock
