Can you believe it is only 28 days to Christmas?
In our busy lives, Christmas can become overwhelming for many, instead of a time of reflection at the wondrous birth of the one destined to become the Saviour of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Holy Bible, records these words: “No one can please God without faith, for whoever comes to God must have faith that God exists and rewards those who seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)
God definitely knew what he was doing when Jesus, His only begotten son, was born in a little obscure village in Bethlehem.
It was the time when a census was being taken of the whole Roman world (just like our governments today still deliver a census to our front door to determine the demographics of Australians). In those days however, everyone had to return to their own towns of birth and register for the census to be done accurately.
Joseph and Mary returned to Bethlehem, the town of King David, because Joseph was from the family line of King David.
Mary was pledged in marriage to Joseph and was with child, having been impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Joseph had not had any intimate relations with Mary until after the birth of Jesus.
God still resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
While in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ in a humble manger, because due to the census every hostel was full. Yes, the Son of God, resting in a humble animal feed trough, born to a humble mother, Mary and step-parent, Joseph, God himself being the true Father of Jesus.
Mary and Joseph were overjoyed and in awe that they should have the honour of raising the Son of God and the one who was sent to become the Saviour of everyone who has ever lived.
So did everyone in Bethlehem know that the soon to be, Saviour of the world had just been born? When a birth takes place in the British monarchy, the tabloids are full of the good news.
However, God in his infinite wisdom chose to reveal the birth to humble shepherds, the most lowly of professions in those days. An angel appeared and announced the birth to them.
They were initially terrified. Then a whole host of angels appeared to them praising God and proclaiming God’s goodness.
Why the shepherds? Because humble people have hearts that are open to God.
Once the angels left, the shepherds went into Bethlehem and found Mary, Joseph and Jesus. They spread the word about Jesus’ birth and returned to their sheep, praising God for his goodness.
In 2018 nothing has changed. God still resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Why not seek out a church this Christmas and take the time to worship the Christ who gave His life for you and me.
Pam Sammut, pastor, Tenterfield Community Church.
