Joy to the World

At this time of the year, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of shopping and gift wrapping and forget the meaning behind the message of Christmas.

This period is often referred to as the “silly season” and is characterized by a feeding and spending frenzy. However, the real silliness is found in the neglect of the greatest Gift ever given to man. Yes, we know Christ was not born on December 25, but He was born! And because He was, salvation has come to humankind. In one earth-shattering moment, God emptied heaven and sent its sweetest treasure—His only begotten Son—down to redeem His children. Christ’s mission was to connect us with the Father’s heart of love.

Instead of being born in a palace, He was born in a stable.

Rather than royalty for earthly parents, He was welcomed by a carpenter and a young peasant girl. Instead of His birth being heralded by pomp and ceremony, shepherds ran through the darkened streets, proclaiming that the Messiah had come.

Then, panting and out of breath, they entered a dusty stable and fell down and worshiped Him. A crude manger filled with straw became the resting place for the Son of God. The glory of the Lord shone from the stable and transformed what was commonplace into something wonderful. Today He wants to take your life and fill it with His presence.

He wants to transform your hopelessness into hope, your heartache into joy, and your weariness into abundant life. He came to Earth so that you would remember who your Father is. He wants to empower you to live your life in an extraordinary manner.

That is His gift to you today—transformation.

Offer Him the manger of your heart, and let His glory shine forth from your life. Then go out and proclaim boldly that the Messiah is coming to Earth again! That is your gift to others.

Cordell Liebrandt