Looking Into The Face of Reality
by Darla Noble
Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin will conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Immanuel. Prince of Peace. Messiah. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. Son of the Most High God.
It all started in a lowly stable when a young, unassuming girl named Mary gave birth for the first time.
But this wasn’t just any girl. Mary, who was a virgin, did not let her fears and uncertainties grow larger than her faith.
When she was chosen by God to be the mother of the Messiah — God in the flesh, who came to be a sacrifice for our sins — she embraced the role of God-servant and mother with her whole heart.
Celebrating the Christmas holiday with family and friends through the giving of gifts, making memories over food and fellowship, and other such traditions are special. But oh, let us not forget the night that Jesus was born — the night Mary and Joseph looked at reality in the form of a newborn baby, and knew they were looking at the hope for all mankind.
Jesus truly is the reason for this blessed season!
Reflection
What can I do to make this Christmas one that draws more attention to Jesus than to the hype and excitement the world wants to make of the season?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, Thank You for coming to earth to save each and every one of us from our sins. Thank You for becoming like us so You would better understand us. Please guard my heart and mind against the commercialism and worldliness that tries to rob You of the attention and glory You deserve as we celebrate Your birth. Help me celebrate Christmas in a holy and meaningful way. In Your precious name I pray, Amen.
