Jesus is the gift of the Father to mankind
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)
He did not come empty handed - The angel announced Jesus and the gifts He brought with Him
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. (Luke 2:8 -16).
Jesus is the Anointed Savior born to redeem mankind from sin and its consequences and restore our relationship with the father of all creation. He gives us peace, joy, and love in this earthly sojourn. He fills us with the hope of spending eternity with God in heaven.
If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me (Jeremiah 29: 13).
The shepherds thought it a good idea to search out this thing they had heard. They came looking for Jesus, they found Him wrapped in swaddling clothes and laying in a manger. Why not search for Jesus like the shepherds did? Don’t be a half-hearted seeker, seek the Lord with all your heart! When you seek Him diligently you will find Him.
Receive Jesus and the gifts He brings.
Not everyone is a good receiver. Some people are uncomfortable with receiving from others because they worry about being indebted rather than enjoying the heart of the giver.
Why not receive Jesus, and the Joy, Peace, and Love that He offers you today?
Watch out for distractions this season!
Beware! The devil wants to steal what you have been given. Do not allow the distractions of the season steal your joy or peace. Enjoy Christmas with your loved ones. Do not stir up or breed strife in your heart and home in an attempt to celebrate Christmas with man-made superfluity. Revel in the gift of the Savior and the many blessings that are ours to enjoy.
Just as it is today, the world was in turmoil when Jesus was born. Jesus came with good news and a message of hope in the midst of chaos.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27).
