Read: Galatians 4:1-7
But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law. (v. 4)
There is a thought-provoking verse in the book of 1 Kings. Trying to explain the escape of a prisoner he was supposed to be guarding, the sentry says: “As your servant was busy here and there, he was gone” (20:40). Do you ever get the feeling that while you were busy here and there, doing this and that, the important things in life slipped away from you? This feeling can be particularly acute at Christmas. In the bustle of Christmas preparation, the celebration itself slips by. Some people work strenuously to make Christmas meaningful—buying presents, sending cards, baking and decorating, visiting family—only to flop in a chair on Christmas night, frazzled and exhausted.
If you are feeling that way, there is good news. Today isn’t done yet, and you haven’t missed Christmas. God sent forth his Son. Jesus is here, now, today, by his Spirit! Paul said that God sent Jesus in “the fullness of time” (Gal. 4:4) to redeem us. All creation waits for that redemption (Rom. 8:20-23), and when it comes, we can’t miss it.
Don’t let Christmas slip by you today. Here’s what I want you to do. Find a nice, quiet place to sit. Read the Christmas story. Then just sit, breathe deep, be still, and receive the gift you most need but seldom think to ask for—God himself. Merry Christmas! —Lou Lotz
Today’s Activity: Read the Christmas story aloud, found in Luke 2. Thank God for the gift of Jesus.
About the Author
Rev. Lou Lotz is a recently retired Reformed Church pastor. Lou and his wife Mary Jean live in Hudsonville, Michigan.
