The Message of the Manger: Christmas ReflectionsSample

Stretching Out Christmas

I love to receive late Christmas cards or gifts. Why, you may wonder? Because, in a sense, receiving something late “stretches out” Christmas by allowing the season to linger a little longer.

More than stretching out the season of festivities, however, we have the incredible privilege of "stretching out" the sharing of the message as we allow Him to work within us, echoing the cry of Mary’s heart in saying, “Lord, have your way in me.”

“People gave lip service to the things of the Lord, but they denied His converting power by the way they lived.”

I am reminded of this quote that stuck out to my son one year while reading Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, and can’t help but think how profound a thought it is this month as people worldwide pay tribute to the love of God as displayed in the sending of the Savior.

But I wonder: what will we do with the Son? Will He remain in the manger as a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths? Or will He rule and reign in our hearts and lives? Will we welcome the working of His power within us so that we may carry the “Christmas message" all year long through the way we live?

Indeed, the decorations come down, the gifts end up in a pile, and the leftovers get thrown out; there is no longer a tree that sparkles with lights or a nativity scene that showcases the Christ Child. Yet there is an invitation for you and me to “stretch out Christmas” as we continue to look to the tree upon which Christ bore our sins and aim to revere Christ as Lord in our hearts.

Friend, there truly is no better way to celebrate Christmas than by stretching it out!

We hope this plan encouraged you. Connect with Cara Blondo of The One Thing Desired and the Perspective Shifts podcast for more Biblical encouragement and free resources.