Sunday, December 23, 2007

The Quiet Time Files - "Are you ready for Christmas?" edition

"Are you ready for Christmas?" If I had a nickel for every time I've heard that question over the last few days, I could go to Starbucks and order the most expensive cup of coffee on the menu.

People are, of course, speaking of the seemingly endless parade of present purchasing, meal planning, travel arranging and mind losing that precedes the "restful" holiday itself. Uh huh.

In the midst of the frenzy we forget to stop and think about what Christmas truly represents: the God of the universe, not only taking on human form, but coming to earth as a baby. A little, squeaking infant, who is nevertheless the creator of the universe, being cared for by His creation.

Incredible.

But not just any child. A child who came to be the Savior of the world.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined.
You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil.
For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.
Isaiah 9:2-7 (ESV)

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