As this year draws to an end, many will be sending messages to their families and friends full of wishes and blessings for the holiday season and new year. By saying the “holiday season” shows how climatized I have become to the world and not fully seeing the real reason why, across denominations, we gather to celebrate Christmas.
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.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2:8-14 (New International Version)
We celebrate Jesus’ birth, the reconciliation of God and man, the restoration of a broken relationship because of sin and the gift of everlasting life! What better present can we receive than this? We accept Jesus as our Lord and we are adopted as God’s children and can call Him “Abba, Father”! What better comfort? What greater reason for celebration?
During this particular season we will have to show restraint and creativity in our gatherings, however this does not stop us from rejoicing in the birth of Jesus.
When I was a young boy, I asked my parents why there was always an extra plate set at the table when we sat down for our Christmas Eve dinner and celebration. Dad said it was for anyone that knocked on the door during this time so that we could share the blessing we had been given! This year that plate will be a computer monitor, and my son and his family will be sitting at their table hundreds of miles away! I am blessed!
Jan Kwasniewski
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Christian Virtual School
May the Lord’s blessing be upon you on this celebration of Jesus’ birth and throughout the new year. May He keep you safe and may His face shine on you and may He be gracious to you. May you be filled with His joy and peace.
