The Story

CHRISTMAS

Christmas is one of my favoritest (yes, I think that should be a word) times of the year.  It was as a kid and it still is.  I love the lights, picking out a tree, shopping (some of the time), and watching Christmas movies.  What is your favorite Christmas movie?

Prayer:  “God, thank you for Christmas, the time we celebrate you coming to the world to show us how much you love us and to rescue us.”

Grab Your Bible:  Read Luke 2:1-12.

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. ² (This was the first census that took place while  Quirinius was governor of Syria.) ³ And everyone went to their own town to register.

⁴ So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. ⁵ He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. ⁶ While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, ⁷ and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

⁸ And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

I know it may sound familiar.  But read it one more time outloud.  Listen to what you are reading.  This is the story of Jesus, God who came down to earth.  Jesus’ story did not begin at this moment in time.  He has always been.  Jesus’ birthday divides human history.  (B.C. and A.D.)  You mark your birthday by his birthday.  This is not a Disney story, this is the real deal.  Jesus came down from heaven to bring honor to God.  And to rescue you and me from our sin.

If you had been one of the shepherds, what would have been going through you head?  What would your reaction be?

We can pick up the rest of the story tomorrow.

Prayer:  God, Jesus came to rescue me!  Thank you.  Please help me to hear your voice today!