Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Feast of Nativity: Birth of Our Lord


Philip Manuel and Laila Anie Philip
Carmel MTC, Boston

10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 

Christmas is a great event that changed the history of the world. It is advent of life, love, light, peace and hope of God into the world of darkness, sin, pain, and suffering

The birth of our Lord who is Christ the Immanuel is the incarnation of God the creator in human flesh and body. Luke is the only gospel writer who related the events he recorded to world history. The Jews were waiting for a king to be born who can deliver them from the Roman Empire, their physical ailments and establish an earthly kingdom. Hence they expected the king to be born only in a palace. But when Christ was born, the humble shepherds were the first to be informed. He was born in a manger wrapped snugly in strips of cloth. Even now we can receive this good news if we are humble enough to accept Him. Jesus instead of making an earthly kingdom, built a spiritual kingdom. He delivered us from our physical ailments and  from the bondage of sin.

Dear friends, can we accept this Jesus today as our Savior and Lord. We need not be extraordinary or overly qualified for Jesus to accept us. He is ready to accept us as we are if we make room for Him in our lives. Christmas is a time of rejoicing and singing. Let us  rejoice, be glad and share this big news of the saving grace to thousands around us; who even though have heard about Him did not accept Him as Savior and Lord. As the great carol says we have to go and tell it on the mountain over the hills and everywhere that JESUS CHRIST is born.


PRAYER

Almighty Gracious Lord we come in our spiritual journey at the manger of Bethlehem following the shepherds and the wise men with an open sincere   and contrite heart. For unto us is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord who is our Immanuel. Enable us to share this good news to all around us and rejoice in it while singing and shouting the greatest carol "glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." Let the joy, love, peace and hope of Christmas radiate from us and become meaningful to the humanity through us.   Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Let us bow down not only at the manger as the wise men did but also at the cross where he paid the price of our sins.

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