Dave’s Monday Blast – December 23, 2024
Merry Christmas!
My granddaughter, who turns three today, is fascinated with the Angels that are so very prominent in the Biblical account of the birth of Jesus. As she was “helping” unpack tree ornaments last week, her priority was on finding the “angel topper”. She had remembered that specific ornament from last year. Of course once we found it, she carefully supervised its placement on the top of the tree. Additionally, she loves the small angel figurine that hangs over the “Bethlehem Stable” which resides on a table in the living room and the account of the Angelic host appearing to the shepherds. I can relate to her interest as angels have played such a prominent role in the lives of humankind since creation; but none more so than all the events surrounding the Saviors’ birth.
In John 3:16 we discover God’s heart for His creation: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Christianity, different from every other religion in the world, offers salvation that is based not on human merit, but on a free gift from our Creator, God. This is what makes what we have put our faith in so unique. The Apostle Paul affirms this truth in Ephesians 2:8 & 9. In His great love for us God has offered the world a gift, a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. We cannot earn it nor can we buy it; it is free, it is a gift.
Among the many announcements given to humankind by the angelic servants of God throughout history was the arrival of “Wise Men” from the East bearing gifts for the newborn King of the Jews and Savior of the World. The tradition of gift giving has followed ever since honoring the spirit in which “gifts” are to be given. The Angels, whether as individuals or operating as a host, were blessed to be used by their creator to inform humankind that their redeemer had come; the circumstances were miraculous at every turn.
I find it incredible that we too are blessed to be used by our creator to inform humankind that their redeemer has come and every time someone comes to faith in Christ and receives that gift of eternal life it is another miracle. This is what makes Christmas seem magical, and I think that is exactly how my little granddaughter views the whole shabang! I love reliving the magic through her questions, observations, and excitement. And I love being a part of sharing family traditions and being a part of creating new ones. That is my most special gift this Christmas.
Take a few moments and read Luke 2:19. Then spend some time meditating (pondering) and allow the angelic announcement to God’s vessel strengthen your faith, and if need be, reignite the magic of what God has done for us!
Merry Christmas my good friends!
