Bethlehem

Gift Wrapped

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But made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.   Philippians 2:7-8

Did you ever stop to wonder who came up with the idea of gift wrapping? Why do we bother with ribbons and bows if it is just the gift itself that people really want? Maybe it all comes down to a presentation; like on the opening night of a play. When we wrap gifts we do it to keep in the surprise. KIMG0138

In a strange sort of way Jesus came as God- gift wrapped! No one could see who Jesus was in his swaddling cloths in the manger. It took angels telling the shepherds to get anyone to begin unwrap that first Christmas present!

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Another reason for gift wrapping is so we can say:  “This just for you!” In that same way Jesus was sent, not only for the whole world, but He also gives Himself to us one by one.

Now some of us open presents on Christmas Eve and others on Christmas morning. But no matter what our selected time, it is the gift wrapping that makes us wait till the right time to open our presents. Then on that special silent night in Bethlehem; at exactly right moment, Jesus came  gift-wrapped and we have been unwrapping the love of God in Jesus Christ ever since!

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Seeing His Star

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Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold wise men from the east came to Jerusalem saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship him.       Matthew 2:1-2

The wise men began their journey when they saw the star. It was such an amazing sight that they packed their bags and left their homes to discover where this king was to be born. Though tradition holds that they traveled for 12 days, the Bible doesn’t tell us the length of their journey. What we do learn is that along the way they lost sight of the star.

In our everyday lives as Christians somewhere between the hills, deserts and valleys we also lose sight of the star. When the wise men lost their way they did what some of us hate to do, they asked for directions! But when we get spiritually off course we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. God is pleased to offer His guidance. The interesting thing is that the wise men got their new trip route from the same source we have access to today, from the Bible! God’s word pointed them directly towards Bethlehem and then we read these words:KIMG0900

After listening to the king they went on their way and behold the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was.  Matthew 2:9

 

 

First Day on the Road

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And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David. Luke 2:4 ESV

Often I lie awake the night before a trip turning over in my mind whether we have enough food, clothing, and money for the days ahead. As Mary and Joseph gathered their belongings for Bethlehem, they had practical concerns to deal with also. How would they safely bring their tax money along roadways where thieves laid in wait? Who would give them a place to stay? Should they return to Nazareth?

Amazingly in spite of so many things they could have worried about, we don’t hear one single complaint from either one of them. But Mary and Joseph we

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re not some kind of super-heroes. The Bible is quite clear that they were just ordinary people who put their trust in God. They had questions just as we do. Mary wondered how she would become pregnant without a man. Joseph considered whether Mary was the right woman to marry. Yet they traveled together on a difficult road in peace because they had taken their questions and fears to God.

In what ways are you fearful about your future today? Do you wrestle with some doubts about God’s plan for your life? If you long to travel boldly, first bring God all your questions and then trust His answers. God knows the why and where of the road ahead.