A Few Days Before Christmas

Yesterday afternoon I read the accounts of the birth of Jesus in the different gospels. While reading Matthew Chapter 2, I was struck by the number of times the author refers to the fulfillment of prophecy, emphasizing four different details about the place of birth and why Jesus would have lived in a number of different places. I get the idea that Matthew did his homework about the legitimacy of Jesus being the true awaited Messiah because of the clear fulfillment of what was told about long ago. In the gospel of Luke Chapter 2, I read the birth account that is most often read at Christmas. I never tire of the angles’ message proclaiming news of great joy! The things that stand out in this account are the gifts of joy, peace and hope for all people.

The days of celebrating what our faith is based on are almost here. I’ve planned the menu for our Christmas dinner with our kids and grandkids, as well as the dinner we will be having with my extended family at the Lakehouse. The birds, potatoes, yams, beans and staples needed are stuffed into the cupboards and fridges. At times like this I am thankful for an old spare fridge.

Yesterday we also picked up a final gift, but most of them are tucked under the tree by now. Mind you, there are a few rather conspicuously large and bulky gifts for the grandchildren still not under the tree for this reason. I think everyone in this family is happy not to be bound by size and weight limits for once.

Then, after dinner, we went to the Lakehouse to put up a tree and some garland in anticipation of the family time there next week. It’s the first time we are celebrating Christmas in our old, re-done family cabin, the first time in years, that my mom is not coming alone and that all of the birdies from my branch will be there. Yes, I am looking forward to starting some new traditions.

Thinking about one of the things we want to focus on during our times together, I purchased a new book called the Jesus Storybook Bible. I opened the page to Luke Chapter 1 - 2 and it begins with, “Everything was ready. The moment God had been waiting for was here at last! God was coming to help his people, just as he promised in the beginning.” Does that not make you want to read on?

Wishing you, dear visitors, joy, peace and hope this Christmas. Joy that is not bound by outward circumstances, peace that passes understanding and hope that will not disappoint.

Sincerely, Anneliese