“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:11 KJV
Eight years ago, on December 17th, my first grandchild was born. I don’t remember much about Christmas that year. I don’t remember what gifts I gave or received. I don’t remember if I had my favorite Christmas cookies (rosettes) or my favorite Christmas food (oyster stew). I don’t remember if I saw a Christmas concert or put up Christmas lights. All I really remember of that Christmas is the birth of a child.
But isn’t that enough? All the other things we associate with Christmas are nice. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. But take them all away and it still is the most wonderful time because of a child – because of Jesus.
On December 17th my family will celebrate Eli’s seventh birthday. His birth that Christmas was a wonderful gift, and we are so happy to have him. But one week later we all will celebrate the birth of another child, the greatest gift of all, the Savior who is Christ the Lord.
Enjoy all the fun things to do this Christmas. Do your shopping. Decorate your trees. Eat your Christmas cookies. Enjoy your concerts. And never forget that Christmas is none of those things – not really. It’s simply a birthday. God’s gift to us in a little child.
Pastor Mark