Luke 2:1-7 “In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.
“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
The most important event in human history took place in a little town called Bethlehem—in the only place that had room–a stable. And it didn’t happen with lots of onlookers, nor was it considered particularly newsworthy. There were only a few shepherds and a handful of livestock that were even there. Sometimes we wonder why it all happened so quietly, and without fanfare.
Maybe that is because it is just God’s way. God tends to be quiet about His work on earth. God doesn’t do a lot of “front-page” things; God usually sits back and waits for us to see what He has been up to—through us, the believers. God wants us to make the connection. God wants us to share the good news. God wants us to be His hands and feet so we can help this world see Him.
At this time of year we can decide to see more than just the glitter of the season. We can take the lights, gifts, parties, decorations, Christmas movies, and all the secular things, and see them as celebrations of the birth of Christ.
When you go by a lighted Christmas tree, have every light represent a saved soul, or one that needs to be saved. When you watch It’s a Wonderful Life, for the umpteenth time, be reminded of the wonderful blessings God has given you and your family. For every Christmas party you attend, think about the fantastic party in heaven awaiting everyone of us who believe in Him. When you see all the secular things trappings of the season, be reminded that our work here is not done—there is always another soul God is asking for us to reach.
Relate life to God. Look for Him around every corner, because God is there—if we only make the connection.
