My, how our world has changed. But, it is comforting to know some things have stayed the same and have become classics: making cookies around the holidays and decorating my tree with my girls.

Some things are more than classics. They are truths, holding greater meaning than any holiday tradition. Much joy and hope is chronicled in the Christmas story found in the Bible. The actions of the people involved serve as examples all these years later.

Mary

Mary was betrothed to Joseph. Being pregnant at this time in her life was dangerous. She must have been so nervous telling Joseph and filled doubts of being unworthy. 

Yet, Mary accepted God’s will for her life. She was humble and bravely walked, following His plan and becoming Jesus’ mother. 

In Luke 2:19, after she gave birth, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” We should be spending time with Jesus, treasuring God’s Holy Word and pondering in our hearts.

Elizabeth

Elizabeth was an encouragement. Finally being pregnant after being barren into old age, she had to be excited. However, perhaps she was scared to raise a son now or wrestled with the humility that God allowed her to become pregnant. 

But the Bible does not record any such actions. Elizabeth served a vital role in Mary’s story. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for several months, and they walked the path of pregnancy together…the old and the young! As we age, we too should be investing in the lives of others, encouraging them with wisdom that God has allowed us to learn along our paths.

Joseph

Joseph had so many reasons to doubt, and public humiliation was inevitable due to Mary’s condition. What a risk he was taking to believe! 

But, Joseph listened to God’s instructions, given to him by an angel (recorded in both Luke and Matthew). Our first step also is to believe—that God sent His son to change the world. If you have not accepted His gift, For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16), please talk with someone who can help you understand how much you are loved by God and how He wants you to receive His love. Are we willing to believe like Joseph? Belief that is so deep we are changed.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

Shepherds

The shepherds shared their personal encounter of Jesus with others. God wants us to share our story as well. My experiences in life and how God has provided strength and comfort to overcome is powerful and will minister to others if I am willing.

Wisemen

The wisemen spend a significant amount of their life seeking Jesus. They followed the star as we should be following the Word of God to find our way. While God talks to us through music, prayers, and other Christians, the principal way to learn is through His scriptures. So, we must be willing to read—-really dig in, attend small groups that study the Bible and find sound commentary to help us understand.

Share His Love

Christmas is such a blessing. It begins the most wonderful story ever recorded, the hope for us all! Share the joy only His birth, death on the cross, and resurrection can bring.