God of great gifts, bless the life and needs of this dear reader with the greatest gift of Your love and grace; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Luke 2: 1 About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. 2 This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. 4 So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David's town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. 5 He went with Mary, his fiance, who was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel. 8 There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. 9 Suddenly, God's angel stood among them and God's glory blazed around them. They were terrified. 10 The angel said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: 11 A Savior has just been born in David's town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. 12 This is what you're to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger." 13 At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God's praises: 14 Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.
This is the story that explains this season. Well, one of two; Matthew has his version. Luke, through interviews he conducted of the oral histories of Jesus' life, ran across those who shared with him this story of Jesus' birth. Luke's version is considered a universal account, for unlke Matthew who stresses the Jewish influences and prophecies fulfilled, Luke's story has the components that relate to all people, regardless of birth. The visitors to Jesus' birth site are shepherds, a common profession to whom most could relate, and the kicker of this story, Jesus is born in a place meant for animals not humans. It was as God wanted, and as makes the point of this whole celebration of Christmas. God is God to all people regardless of station and status. God is your God. God's love for you and me is demonstrated in this simple, yet awesome birth.
The message from this story is the one shared by the angel, "Don't be afraid...(your) Savior who is Messiah and Master" is given to us. Let us receive Him as our Lord and may we live our lives based on joy and not fear. God is still in control. Of all things.
PRAYER: Loving God, we would have written the story different, but we're not in charge, You are. Help me to celebrate this birth as the birth of my new life of faith and joy. May my life reflect a love towards You and all people. In Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
