finding Christ this Christmas season

At this time of year, as we get out our Christmas ornaments and decorate the tree. We have a tradition that each child gets to hang their own ornaments on the tree. We laugh and talk about each piece as we decorate the tree. We remember how much each child has grown, and where we have been. (we also buy an ornament on each family vacation). (do you have any macaroni ornaments on your tree?)



This tradition in its own way reminds me the children of israel celebrated Passover each year. To celebrate the children of Israel escape from slavery in Egypt. The Passover celebration is celebrated with the asking of 4 questions, they remind the Jewish people where they have been, how faithful is God then at the end of the celebration it is concluded with them looking forward to the return of the Messiah. The promised one.



What would it have been like to have been a Shepard going through the routine of life and being startled awake by an angel announcing the birth of the messiah.
"That night, some shepherds were in the fields nearby watching their sheep. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them. The glory of the Lord was shining around them, and they became very frightened. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I am bringing you good news that will be a great joy to all the people. Today your Savior was born in the town of David. He is Christ, the Lord. This is how you will know him: You will find a baby wrapped in pieces of cloth and lying in a feeding box.” Then a very large group of angels from heaven joined the first angel, praising God and saying: “Give glory to God in heaven,and on earth let there be peace among the people who please God.” When the angels left them and went back to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem. Let’s see this thing that has happened which the Lord has told us about.” So the shepherds went quickly and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who was lying in a feeding trough. When they had seen him, they told what the angels had said about this child. Everyone was amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured these things and continued to think about them. Then the shepherds went back to their sheep, praising God and thanking him for everything they had seen and heard. It had been just as the angel had told them. (Luke 2:8-20 NCV)



Can you imagine being startled awake to such a sight, how bright they must have been. In the darkness of the night. I am sure the shepherds were shocked, did what they just saw and heard, really just happened!?! With adrenalin Pumping through their veins the got up and rushed to see if it was true. Oh how they must have marveled at the sight of finding Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby Jesus.



So as we are going about our routine in the busyness of the season, remember to stop, pause and pick up the bible and find Jesus for yourself. Remember where you have been, and what Christ has done for you!



I hope you marvel at what God has done for you this Christmas. That you ponder and continue to think of what you have read. May Christ be real to you this Christmas!

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