Steven A. Bush - December 19, 2021
The Sights & Sounds of Christmas
Luke 2:4-7 tells us about the first Christmas: "And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with Child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn Son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." (ESV) As much as we try and revisit that first Christmas, it's still very hard to imagine. Sometimes contrasts help differentiate the "what was" with "what is." Your house may smell like cinnamon and spice, or fresh pine with sweet pastries baking in the oven; the birthplace of Jesus smelled like manure. But just the same, Mary treasured all that happened that eventful night deep down in her heart. No lights. No hot chocolate. No cookies for Santa. No presents under the tree. Yet she bore the greatest Gift ever given. She'd watch Him grow into manhood. She'd witness the miracles, hear His teachings, and see Him die on a cross for her sins and ours too. Jesus was her Son and yet He was the Son of God--from eternity past and likewise forevermore. All glory to God in the highest!