And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” [Luke 2:7-14 NKJV] There is always something miraculous about the birth of a child, and I consider myself so hugely fortunate with our children and grandchildren; each one so beautifully fashioned that it breaks your heart. Every new life precious. Not everyone is able to experience that particular joy — and for many and varied reasons — but I believe that our Lord is one who mends every broken reed, and we should all be encouraged and find joy in every moment. Be assured this is not easy, as we know only too well, and indeed identify with al those who are troubled at this time of year. Easy to say and difficult to do. Exactly right. When Jesus was born, it was into the humblest of circumstances. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords was born in a cowshed. The place of your birth and the nature of your nurture does not define you. These things, impactful as they are, need not make you who you are. Jesus Christ, and only Jesus Christ can transform your situation if you turn to Him. Only He can lift you out and raise you up. That has been my experience and that of so many. “the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.“ At this time of year and in this particularly trying year on every front, we pray for that great joy of the new birth for you all; that we may be refreshed and renewed for a regenerating year in 2021. For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. [Isaiah 9:6-7 NKJV] Jesus Christ is God incarnate coming into human flesh from the outside, His life is the Highest and the Holiest entering in at the lowliest door. Have I allowed my personal life to become a “Bethlehem” for the Son of God? |
MEDITATE ON THESE THINGS…Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Archives
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GEORGE and GILL STEWART |