Friday, Dec 27

Scriptures: Isaiah 9:6 (RSV) – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called ‘Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’”

Luke 2:10-11 (NIV) – “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’”

John 3:16 (RSV) – “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Message: Christmas morning, growing up, was always a special time. Our Dad was an entertainer, and a musician. He loved making an event “just like New York.” Christmas morning was his stage. We, the five children, were his audience, and he never let us down. He would not allow us to enter the living room, where the tree and gifts were waiting to be opened, until he came downstairs and had his coffee. There was so much drama; the anticipation was almost unbearable. The house was filled with excitement! Finally, we entered the magical room, and we all took our places around the Christmas tree. Dad sat on a stool next to the tree. He proceeded to pick up the first gift, often shaking it, then telling a story about where the gift originated and how Santa ended up bringing it to the person it was intended for. We sat, listened, and laughed, as the stories were always funny. We watched with anticipation as each sibling unwrapped their gift, waiting for our turn.

I think about those Christmases and how the anticipation was so powerful, but so much more powerful is the coming of Jesus. Isaiah 9:6 was written approximately 700 years before the birth of Jesus.

Over 2000 years have passed since the angel visited the shepherds in the field as recorded in Luke 2:10-11.

As we, and all those around the world, gather with family and friends in our homes this Christmastide, the glorious time that God gave us His only Son, we celebrate and worship His greatest gift with hope of eternal life.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the birth of Your Son, revealing the gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love. Hallelujah. Amen.

Barbara Moss
College Heights United Methodist Church
Lakeland, Florida