Worship the babe of the cradle with homage to the Man of the cross. I rejoice in the story of the nativity; the birth of Jesus renews hope, leading me to climb Calvary hill and remember his sacrificial death. Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes; guards stripped him of raiment to bear his shame before a mocking mob.
Travel city streets; hear the bells on Christmas day. Remember the crowded streets of Jerusalem; hear the hammered nails of Good Friday. “After the soldiers nailed Jesus to the cross, they divided up his clothes (John 19:23 a CEV).” Christmas is superficial with commercialism at its best until we make the connection from comfortable cradle, to excruciating death on the cross.
Lord, my heart is fickle; I am selfish and easily swayed by tinsel and bows. The greatest gift did not appear under a tree; he hung on a tree transformed into a weapon of execution. I receive your gift with a contrite heart. “A broken and contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise (Psalm 51:17b NAS).”
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Thank you, Pam for sharing your article with us! It brings home the TRUE meaning of Christmas and Easter.
Not to be swayed by tinsel and presents,I look upon this celebration as a time when our family will come together, sharing a meal, talking and enjoying one another's company. It's only for a cherished few hours, before we are all 'flung' back into reality! ie the four letter dreaded word; WORK.
Keep up with your writing and wishing you and your family a very happy Christmas.
