[All Church] Merry Christmas 2008!

[meags3 at mchsi.com]

Hi and Merry Christmas to you and your family! Here is the latest installment in my annual Christmas greeting/devotional!  : )  
 
How often do we really take a moment to ponder the reason behind the multitude of holidays we celebrate? Or pause to reflect on the characters involved in a historic event?
As you move into Christmas this year, I encourage you to read through the true account of the Christmas story in Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:26-38 + 2:1-20. Take a moment to relate to the characters in the story. What would it have been like to be told you had "found favor in the eyes of God", and were therefore going to be responsible for mothering Him in human-form? What would it have been like to be told that the woman you have loved and committed to marry was now pregnant out of wed-lock, but was still to be taken into your home as your wife? What does it look like to follow God in obedience, trust, and whole-hearted affection despite our reservations or unclear future? What can we learn from the responses and events of this seemingly familiar story? 
I hope that this message finds you healthy, safe, and excited about the season. Regardless of where you are at, or what you are going through, I hope that you take a moment to consider the miracle that occurred that long time ago, and the journey of events that happened thereafter; events that led an innocent, humble baby to death on a cross. I wonder if on that “silent night” that small child knew that He would one day save our lives? Whether that reality was present in his tiny frame or not, the purpose of his coming was clear, so may we all respond with joyful gratitude and generosity this season. I pray that the meaning behind Emmanuel, “God with us”, is evident in your heart and mind this Christmas, and always.
 
Much love and best wishes as you head into the New Year!
Merry Christmas, Meagan
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