It is typical to pull on the many threads of the Christmas story, to look in the stable, follow the shepherds, and wonder at the magi. This year, however, we’re focused on the larger picture of the results. I hope that as we explore the larger picture, we’ll have a deeper appreciation for Christmas and what it really means.
Before Christ’s earthly ministry, God was unapproachable. The High Priest could only enter the Holy of Holies once per year, and only after a lengthy purification ritual. The children of Israel, fresh from Egypt, were warned to stay away from Mount Sinai on pain of death as Moses received the Ten Commandments and Tabernacle instructions. It wasn’t always like that.
Early in Genesis, we read of a Garden and God’s direct interactions with Adam and Eve. God hung out with his creation. How cool is that? Long story short – Adam and Eve blew it by disobeying God’s command. The connection, the relationship, was severed.
Jesus said, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:10, NLT) Satan’s purpose in the Garden was to steal, kill, and destroy. Christ’s purpose, the reason for Christmas, is to give them (His followers) a rich, satisfying, and abundant life. No longer does fear define our relationship with God. Those who trust in Christ are now called sons and daughters. We are invited into God’s presence whenever we desire. We are, in fact, expected to abide in Him, and He in us, like a branch connected to a vine.
Our sin, which separated us from God, is covered and forgiven in the death and resurrection of Christ. A journey that began in a rural village’s stable. And yet, given God’s majestic grace, we get apathetic. Being a follower of Christ can become just one part of our life. A bolt-on accessory that we lean on when needed. But that is not God’s desire for this relationship. God didn’t send Jesus to be our sometimes savior, but that He would be our all-in-all. (Colossians 3:11).
Maybe you don’t have that kind of relationship with God yet. You start by simply talking to God. Recognizing that you’ve tried to live without Him and gone your own way. In other words, you have sinned and need a savior. Ask for His forgiveness; He is merciful, and His grace overflows. Recognize that Jesus came, died, and rose again to make the way (John 14:6) for you to God. Invite Jesus into your life and choose to go God’s way. It will be the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received.
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