Christmas Day is an occasion for unwrapping gifts. I can’t think of any more needful gift than the first Christmas gift, Jesus. God enters our mess and offers us comfort, grace, and hope.
That child in the Bethlehem manger can bring you more comfort than you can imagine. The Bible tells us that Jesus is able to empathize with our weaknesses, because he was tempted in every way, just as we are, yet he did not sin (Heb. 4:15). You might sometimes feel utterly alone; like no-one understands the pressures, burdens, and temptations that you go through. But Jesus understands. He walked the road of human troubles before you did. Your burdens are not secret to him. You can talk with him about them.
I can’t think of any more needful gift than the first Christmas gift, Jesus
Jesus doesn’t just offer us comfort; he also offers us grace (Heb. 4:16). As much as we try, we can’t heal our own brokenness. But he can. The baby in the manger became the man on the cross. He took upon himself our own sin and brokenness. That’s why he’s able to forgive you. This is the incredible gift of infinite cost that has no expiry date, the gift that we most need, the gift we’re invited again this Christmas to open and to treasure.
The reason why we remember Christmas at all, is not simply because Jesus was born, nor because he died; it’s because Jesus rose from the dead. The Christian hope is that Jesus has defeated death and one day will return, this time not as a helpless baby, but as a magnificent king. A king who will be close enough and gentle enough, to wipe every tear from our eyes. He will personally put an end to everything that has brought his people pain.
On behalf of the staff and Council of St Andrew’s, Megan and I wish you a wonderful Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour.
