The birth of Jesus, today, appears to be all about presents. To me it is about His presence. Can you imagine, an angel foretelling His birth to His mother, Mary. Where are the mothers in the house, precious as our children are to us, did an angel foretell us of their births? Nooo, so this should tell us that the birth of Jesus was a major event, and still is to this very day. The mistake that we have made is that we have wrapped it all up in presents. People, please listen up, this is what the birth of Jesus means:

He is our Deliverer – He was sent to earth to save us from our sins so that we might aspire to live lives of righteousness. I say aspire because not everyone has this aspiration or desire.  Good or evil, which path do you aspire to? Whatever the choice one has to deal with the consequences of that choice. Choose wisely.  He was brought to earth to pay the price for our sins through the shedding of his blood. If we lived in the days of the old testament would you be able to afford the sacrifices required? Perhaps we would be condemned to living permanently in our sins.  Yet we continue to take this precious gift for granted.

He is the Light – the people living in darkness have seen a great light. He has brought us out of darkness to live in his light. Sadly the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. Man goes about his own business with no thought to his Creator.

He is Our Peace, He is Our Refuge, He is the Living Water, He is Truth, He is  Our Shield, He is Our Righteousness, He is Our Victory Banner,  He is Our Provider, He is the Word for He has exalted His Word above His Name. His Word gives us life!  He is all that I cannot name in one blog.

For me this Christmas season is a time to reflect on this precious gift that I have: the gift of Jesus Christ himself who laid down His life for me. It is the most precious gift, and nothing can or will ever supersede that. As the words of one of my favourite songs says, “I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died and that He died for me”. I carry the present of His Presence with me at all times. How marvellous is that and what a blessing!

As you enjoy the Christmas season with loved ones and friends, pause, reflect and thank Him for His goodness unto you.

For unto us a Child is born,  Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder; And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all.