Wednesday, December 7

“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the

Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the

forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will

come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to

guide our feet into the path of peace.’” — Luke 1:76-79

Mark Twain once said that “familiarity breeds contempt.” Sometimes, I get the feeling we are like the folks who decided to throw a party to honor a very special friend. They sent out invitations, decorated the hall, and had the food catered. All the people came together at the designated time, but to their surprise, the guest of honor was not there. Finally, they made the embarrassing discovery that no one had ever invited the guest of honor.

I wonder if that happens at Christmas time. Do we go through all the decorating, buying presents, and preparing elaborate meals, but somehow forget whose birthday it really is?

This month more than a billion people will celebrate Christmas. Amid candlelight, carols and the smells of cedar and incense, the old story of Jesus birth will unfold again. The story is familiar, and in this fallen world, it is not doubt or disbelief that you and I must typically guard against. The danger we face each year is simply familiarity: knowing the story all too well, so well in fact that we miss its wonder.

Activity:

Light the second candle in the Advent Wreath and read today’s scripture as a family. Set an extra place at the Christmas table for Jesus to remind your family that the reason for the season is to celebrate his birthday and what it means to us!

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the peace that comes through knowing You in a real and personal way. Jesus, we’re so glad You were born. Help us focus our eyes on You during this busy season and celebrate Your birthday like we never have before!

Merry Christmas!

Chuck and Ann Ashley