“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2.11-14
In just one day, the world will celebrate the birth of Christ. We’ve been preparing for months (Walmart since August), and it will all be over in a matter of days. We’ve spent hundreds, if not thousands, on presents. We’ve decorated our houses, pastors have preached countless sermons, led Bible studies, and sent emails and texts with devotions focusing on this birth, encouraging congregants to do the same. We’ve rearranged our calendars for this very event. Our schools have shut down for weeks because of it.
And still, some will miss it. Some will miss the true meaning and gift of Christmas.
In Luke’s Gospel, we hear the announcement of the Messiah’s birth—this gift to the world. It’s a famous statement, heard in churches, Christmas pageants, and songs, read by millions, and believed by billions: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
What a statement it is! In these dozen-plus words, we learn about the greatest gift ever given. A Savior is offered to the world, born into the line of David (as we recently read about in 1 Samuel 16). The prophets of old foretold His arrival. He is the Messiah, meaning “Anointed One,” and the “Lord,” from the Greek word kyrios.
Don’t miss this event. Don’t miss the meaning. Behind the lights, elaborate pageants, and holiday movies lies a Messiah waiting to give you life. Jesus promises abundant life now and eternal life to come. For anyone who believes and calls upon His name, He gives the Holy Spirit. The gift that was once distant for many can come home to your heart this very day.
This is why I do what I do—why I serve Revive, why I direct Truett’s Wesley House—so that the world may know. Nothing else truly matters except this one gift. Nothing is so rare yet so abundantly accessible to all. “If you confess with your mouth and believe in your heart… you will be saved.”
So this Christmas, don’t miss it. If you’ve missed it before, you have another chance right now to renew your heart for Christ. Surrender to Him. Trust in His plan. Receive His forgiveness. Prepare for Christmas, not by running errands, but by devoting your heart to Christ.
“O Lord God, Jesus is Your gift to the world. When many are seeking worldly gain, You offer genuine meaning. You offer salvation, purpose, and hope. Come now, Holy Spirit, upon us. Fill all who believe with Your love. Reach those who do not yet know You with Your power. Come now, I pray. I love You, Lord, and praise Your name. I glorify You and give thanks for Your unending love and grace.” Amen.