MERRY CHRISTMAS ! Advent Devotion, December 24, 2014
Christmas Eve
Reading:  Luke 2; 1-14
Written by:  Justin Stone

Luke 2:1-14 is the most popular account of the Christmas story because it embodies God’s love for his creation, describes the birth of Jesus, and sets the stage for the spread of the Christian faith.  The Christmas story begins with the counting and taxing of the citizens, bringing Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.  God, too, according to Luke, also takes a census of his creations.  However, the heavenly census is not one of taxation, but one of love.  “But even the hairs of your head are all counted.  Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Luke 12:7)  Christmas is a time to remember God’s personal and individual love for all he has created.

          

The birth of Jesus carries another theme that is echoed later in the Gospel of Luke.  “In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:8)  These shepherds are not only the first witnesses of the birth of Jesus, but also serve as a metaphor for Jesus himself.  Jesus later asks, “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them.  Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?” (Luke 15:4)  Jesus has come for the salvation of all, even those who reject him and are lost in the darkness.

               

The heralding of the birth of Jesus truly introduces the Christian message to the world, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace, goodwill among people!” (Luke 2:14)  It is a mission and a message that cannot fail, because God himself is behind it.

Christ Our Savior:  Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your love and salvation—I pray that your church places the Christmas story and the Christian mission in its heart this season.  May we help bring peace on earth and goodwill toward all people.  Amen