The Christmas Code - December 6, 2022
LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE -- IT'S A WORSHIP SERVICE
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"
Luke 2:14
Of course the wise men didn't arrive to see Jesus until months after His birth, but still these visitors from afar are placed in traditional manger scenes right along with the shepherds. Look at the nativity, and you see a worship service. Angels hover over it like drones. Common, smelly shepherds and sophisticated wise men bow down. Worship flows from everyone toward the child.
It is difficult to imagine any greater contrasts than what we see at the nativity. They were different socially. Shepherds were low on the socioeconomic level. Wise men were so socially acceptable they entered the King's palace. They were different educationally. Shepherds had no formal education, while the wise men were famed for knowledge. God is telling us that no matter who you are or where you are from, any and all can come to Christ and worship Him.
Christmas, first and foremost, is about worship.
CODE WORD: MANGER
Think about it: “She... laid him in a manger,” a feeding trough for the animals (Luke 2:7). Had He been born in a palace, only elite would have access. But any and all can approach a manger. Jesus is still accessible to you and anyone who will join the shepherds in bowing before Him.
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Lord, help me keep the worship of You in the heart of my Christmas this year. Glory to God in the highest.
In Jesus' name, amen.