Christmas Delivery
Written by: Bill Sparks Posted on: December 10, 2018 Blog: Thoughts along the way
What are you doing this Christmas?
Me?
I will be resting.
This year's schedule has been different. With my children having children (yep, I love being a grandpa) there are things they have on their calendar that involve their kiddos. I am glad. I remember those days.
Apologies and early visits. They were regular when my kids were little. It was easier. "Sorry mom, we're staying home this Christmas. We'll be there for Thanksgiving, can we do Christmas while we are there?"
Most of my apologies were met with kindness, but I couldn't appreciate the longing our parents had to see those grandkids. I do now.
Let me ask you, what if this Christmas, in addition to seeing family, you stop and look with fresh eyes at the the child. Not just any child but THE Christ Child.
Here are some thoughts from one of my favorite authors:
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:14)
"Don't we love the word "with"?
"Will you go with me?" we ask.
"To the store, to the hospital, through my life?"
God says he will.
"I am with you always." Jesus said before he ascended to heaven, "to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)
Search for the restrictions on the promise; you'll find none.
You won't find "I'll be with you if you behave ... when you believe. I'll be with you on Sundays in worship ... at mass."
No, none of that.
There is no withholding tax on God's "with" promise.
He is with us.
God is with us.
Prophets weren't enough.
Apostles wouldn't do.
Angels won't suffice.
God sent more than miracles and messages.
He sent himself; he sent his Son.
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
(From Max Lucado's book, Cure For The Common Life)
So, this Christmas, look at the child. His world, just a few months earlier, consisted of a throne and praising angels.
And yet...
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
The Savior, that time could not contain, was delivered at the appointed time.
To allow...
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
Don't let this moment pass without letting this truth sink in.
He was infinite and all powerful.
And in spite of it, he exchanged that vastness for the flesh of a child who would become a man.
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
He worked and waited.
He sweat and shed tears... Just like you and me.
He cut his hand and watched the hearts of others be cut by the unkindness of men.
And yet...
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
I know the pressures of this season, the presents, the meals and the many places to be.
But...
Take a moment and let the full impact of this season rest closer to your heart.
Pick up the manger from a nativity set and stare at it for a moment. That statue isn't the Christ child, but we have that statue because of the Christ child.
All because...
"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."
Look at the reminder in the nativity and let it sink in, HE became flesh... he lived here among us.... so we could know him... and know the gift of Christmas.
Forgiveness.
Clean heart.
Clear conscience.
Take a moment.
Set aside the stuff, you can go back to it, it's ok.
Look...
Listen...
Let the "Word" who "became flesh" give you the greatest present during this great season.
Nothing under the tree can do what he can do.
And when the holiday is over...
His gift lasts...