December 25, 2019 THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD-A

Isaiah 9:1-6

Psalm 96

Titus 2:11-14

Luke 2:1-14

“For today in the City of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.”  Lk. 2:11

Lord, it’s strange and wonderful to whom your birth was first made known.  The angel announced to shepherds the good news of the birth of the long-awaited Messiah who is the Son of God.  Why was this most important message given first to lowly shepherds and not to kings or high priests?   We can ask also why you came among us as a helpless baby totally dependent on others for care in a smelly stable only witnesses by farm animals.    Your entry into our world certainly was a preview of your life on earth.  Rejected by the innkeeper, threatened by a mad king, you were welcomed only by Mary, Joseph, a few shepherds and some strange visitors from a far-away country.   Not really the type of birth expected for a king, savior and redeemer.  Lord, it’s my task to see beyond what the world considers normal and important to who you are and what you came to us for.   All creation stands in awe and wonder now that God has visited his people.  You are Emmanuel, the gift of God among us.   Come into my heart today baby Jesus.  I want to hold you and keep you close and warm today and every day.  Amen.