Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave
birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a
manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
When a baby is placed in my arms; I feel giddy.
Twelve years ago, on December 22, Sara gave birth to our
grandson, Elijah Duncan. He spent his first Christmas in the hospital with his
mom and dad. When we stopped by on the twenty-fifth to celebrate the holiday,
we found him swaddled in his baby blanket and cuddled in his mother's arms. I
couldn't wait to get my hands on him.
What a blessing that Christmas was.
Imagine the wonder Mary felt when she held baby Jesus. As a
mother, I know what incredible joy a new baby brings. Consider this—the
baby Mary held grew to be the man who became King of Kings, the One who
sacrificed His perfect life to forgive sin. Because of Jesus I have the hope of
heaven. All He asked of me was to believe, have faith, repent, be baptized, and
obey.
Every day I seek Him and ask Him for guidance. The Holy
Spirit gives me wisdom and clarity, but my part is seeking, listening, and
obeying. I love Jesus and thank Him for forgiving my sins and loving me so
much.
As we celebrate this beautiful season of love and giving,
focus on the One whose life started as a babe in a manger and grew to be the
man who would give his life for us all. The words, "Jesus loves me this I
know," come to mind when I think about Jesus. He loves us and wants us to
love Him and believe in Him.
Believe, this Christmas, in Jesus.