And they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen Him, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it were amazed about the things which were told them by the shepherds.
On Christmas morning, countless children will wake up and run straight to the Christmas tree. Even though the tree is set up throughout the season, they know there will be something different about that spot on Christmas. Under the tree will be the gifts they have been awaiting with anticipation and urgency. There are many places in life where we can take our time and there is often wisdom to going at a slower pace, but there is also a place for excitement and eagerness. For the shepherds, this announcement was an interruption that changed everything. It was declaration of a gift, and they hurried to see what had been proclaimed full of anticipation.
Over time, the Christmas gift giving and receiving experience changes for adults. Instead of wondering what is inside the wrapping paper, we know exactly what is there because we bought and wrapped it. Even though time around the tree might look different as an adult, there is still a gift we can excitedly anticipate like the shepherd. Each Christmas we are reminded that God has come to dwell with us. This news is more than memory, it is an ongoing reality that we can press into in this holiday season and like the shepherds, we not only receive this gift, we also share it with others in great joy.
- What are some of your most exciting Christmas memories? How has your experience of Christmas morning changed as you’ve moved from a child to an adult?
- What are some ways you are seeking to receive the gift of Christ anew this season?
- Pray and ask God to grow your gratitude for the gift of His Son.
