November 28
“New Life” by Kevin Ward
Our family will be celebrating the birth of my brother’s second child at some point this Advent season, which has caused me to reflect a little about the story of the Birth of Christ. In preparing for the new baby, there has been the preparation of a new nursery, preparing his older brother’s rooms, getting everything in the right place, and also for all the company that will drop in to welcome the new one. All of this causes me to think of Christ’s birth, and think about what it must have been like for Mary and Joseph.
They were traveling to Bethlehem for a census, where there was nowhere for them to stay. There was no nursery for the new baby and Joseph couldn’t just run to the corner convenience store for a package of Pampers. Joseph and Mary must have been overwhelmed. In fact, we have this picture of a perfect little stable in which Jesus gave birth; however, it would have been filthy and smelly – nothing like the hospitals we have today.
All of this had to happen so that Christ could endure a difficult life and be crucified. It doesn’t seem quite fair, but it is God’s gift to us – Christ’s birth, life and death. This season we celebrate the happiest moment and we continue to prepare with Christmas trees, baking, and buying M-cards for our loved ones; as we celebrate, we should also remember how great God’s love is, that he created this plan. This is not just one small moment, but part of a bigger picture.
As this season progresses, I pray that all my family – immediate, extended, church, work, and community – will know the peace and joy that this holiday brings. God has given us so much and we take it for granted. I look forward to holding my new niece or nephew in my arms just as Mary and Joseph looked forward to holding their new son.
Bible Verse: Luke 2: 1 – 7
Dear Lord,
Thank you for this great gift we are celebrating this holiday season. Help us to remember that it is all a part of your great plan for us. Watch over us and protect us as we do our own preparations for the birth of your son. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
