All You Want for Christmasنموونە

The Christmas Song

“Now the Word became flesh and took up residence among us. We saw his glory—the glory of the one and only, full of grace and truth, who came from the Father.” - John 1:14

Think

Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” fills us with the warmth and glow of the Christmas season. It’s a reminder of many of the traditions that fill the season, traditions that often lift our hearts and spirits. One such tradition is visiting with close friends and loved ones we may only see this time of year. I can think back to Christmases past when extended family would come in from all over for gatherings that were often followed by long conversations in front of warm fireplaces with good food, maybe even a favorite Christmas movie playing in the background.

When close friends and family who we only relate to through phone or email become incarnate and we can now physically be present with them, even experiencing their warm embrace, there is a joy and glow that fills us. Love compels us to be physically present with one another, especially during the holiday season. Could it also be love that compelled Jesus to take on flesh and come visit with us?

Apply

The greatest Christmas tradition of all involves an in-person visit from Jesus, the Savior for all people. His glorious presence was filled with grace and truth, as one who was sent from the Father. For the glory of the Father and the good of His people, Jesus came. And in the presence of Jesus, there is fullness of joy, peace with God, and hope for eternity to come.

It was love that compelled Jesus to take on flesh and come visit with us. It was love that moved Him to face the horrors of the cross. It was love that resurrected Him. It’s love that makes Him available to us even still today. As we find ourselves compelled by love to visit with our friends and loved ones this Christmas season, may we not forget the great gift of love that we have been shown in Jesus - the God who came and dwelt with His people.

Pray

Great Father in heaven, how thankful we are that long ago you wrapped your son in flesh and sent Him to come visit with us. Your glory, your truth, and your grace shine through the light and life of Jesus. Through Jesus we find salvation with you and the forgiveness of sin. Help us remember to demonstrate to others the same love you have shown us. Move us to be present in the lives of those who are hurting or in need, to show up when it matters the most.

Author - Chris Lenhart serves on staff at Calvary Monument Bible Church in Paradise, PA. Together with their seven children, Chris and Sheila live in the community of Quarryville.