Friday, January 2, 2009
Ninth Christmas Day
Isaiah 9:6 His name shall be called Wonderful
HE SHALL BE CALLED: WONDERFUL!
Let's go back to the manger bed. Let's go with the shepherds and look intently once again at this thing which has come to pass. Let's sit quietly by Mary and ponder deeply one more time what God has given us. Even though it's already the ninth day of Christmas, let's not forget that we have been given something truly Wonderful. Indeed, we have been given a miracle beyond our ability fully to grasp. Nevertheless, the Wonderful Miracle is ours to treasure. It is ours to hold and carry with us throughout the year ahead.
The problem with Christmas is that we put it away far too soon. Already the decorations and lights are coming down, and perhaps our "Christmas spirit" with it. Yes, now that the new year is in full swing, it's time to get back at it. Deadlines, commitments, old and new problems must once again be faced. But let's not leave Christmas behind as if it were only a brief respite in an otherwise very busy and difficult life. Let's not give into the feeling that since Christmas is over, it's time to get back to my less-than-wonderful life.
Rather, let's take a deep breath. Let's turn around. Let's go back to Bethlehem. Let's return to Wonderful. Wonderful doesn't end December 25th. Wonderful is not something to pack away just because the calendar tells us a new year is begun. Wonderful remains. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Jesus is Wonderful? Why? You know! He is God made flesh. He is the miracle Who came to be your righteousness before God; to wash away your blame and shame with His holy blood; to prepare for you a heaven of never-ending Christmas. He is all this, and much, much, more!
So put the lights and decorations away if you must. But keep Wonderful by your side throughout the year. Then, whatever comes your way, every day can be like Christmas Day, and that's . . . wonderful!
