If I asked you what is the most memorable gift you ever received, I wonder what you would tell me? I expect the giver makes the gift significant.
When I was you, a man gave me a diamond ring. The ring was an expression of his love. Now after 64 years I still wear the same ring, and the giver has gone to Glory. The love remains.
On the Advent Sundays leading up to Christmas, we read the ancient texts which promise a Savior, Redeemer, and King, among other titles.
In the course of time, God honored His promise and sent the Christ. He was received with joy by lowly shepherds and exalted kings. What joy babies bring!
But this baby was special—Emmanuel, God with us, God Incarnate. Within that little baby resided the power and potential to change the world, and He did, and has, and does.
There seems to be an assault on Christmas now, some want to take Christ out of “Christ-mas” and make it just another holiday. But just because someone refuses to recognize truth doesn’t change the truth.
Jesus Christ is the One—who divides history— BC and AD. He came once and He is coming again.
We know our faith. We know and believe our Christ. We know that true Christmas is not shopping, Christmas trees, presents, decorations and activities. It is Jesus Christ.
He is called God’s unspeakable gift. He is the heart of Christmas, no matter what it is called or how it is celebrated. Any true celebration of Christmas is about Him.
O, Great Redeemer, come quickly. The anticipation of your coming burns as a flame in the hearts of those who love you.
He who testified these things says, “Yes, I come quickly.” Amen. Yes, Come Lord Jesus. “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.” Revelation 22:19. Amen.
Thoughts From the Garden 