Friday, January 4, 2018
Matthew 1:18a This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: . . .
FROM HEAVEN ABOVE TO EARTH I COME (13-15)
There is so much “glitter” in the world’s modern day Christmas celebrations. Business sees it as a time to make money while others quietly wring their hands and think, “I just wish the holiday wasn’t so commercialized!” For many, sadly, the season really comes down to “How much can I give?” or “How much can I get?”
13. But not so with you. By now you are filled with the true good news, and are eager to say, in the words of Martin Luther’s most famous Christmas prayer:
Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child, Make Thee a bed, soft, undefiled,
Within my heart, that it may be A quiet chamber kept for Thee.
We may have many things on our Christmas lists, but this we want most of all: For Jesus to come and dwell in us; to make our hearts His place. “Come from on high to me, I cannot rise to Thee.” He must come and make us new. He must forgive our sin. He must create in us clean hearts that know Him and seek to do His will.
14-15. Here another Christmas Day has dawned for us, our annual remembrance of Jesus’ birth. Remember who this Child is, remember what you have seen and what it means, and do not hesitate to make known abroad the saying which was told you concerning this child.
My heart for very joy doth leap, My lips no more can silence keep;
I, too, must sing with joyful tongue That sweetest ancient cradle-song:
Glory to God in highest heaven, Who unto us His Son hath given!
While angels sing with pious mirth A glad new year to all the earth.
