Receive THE Gift

A precious little book caught my eye during a recent visit to New Creation. The book, "Christmas: The Father's Gift" was written by Billy Graham and the cover features a simple wrapped gold box - a typical Christmas present. However, the box lid is slightly raised revealing a bright light within... the light of Christ.

The people who walked in darkness
Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the
shadow of death,
Upon them a light has shined.

For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
(Isaiah 9:2, 6)

On that night so many years ago, The Light of the World was born in a stable.

The following is an excerpt from Mr. Graham's book:

Among the most tragic words ever penned are those found in Luke's account of the first Christmas. "There was no room for them in the inn." There was room for merchants, tax collectors, travelers and sightseers, but no room for the gentle Mary and the divine Christ, who was to be born that night.

What was the cause of this tragedy? Why was there no room for Mary and Joseph and their expected Baby, except in a stable? I have some sympathy for the innkeeper. He was not hostile; he was not opposed to the couple; but his inn was crowded; his hands were full; his mind was preoccupied. After all, it was an unusually busy time, with guests arriving from every corner of Israel for the census and taxation. He probably told Joseph, "I wish I could help you, but I must keep my priorities. But I'm not a hardhearted man. Over there is the stable. You are welcome to use it if you care to, but that is the best I can do. Now I must get back to my work."

My friends, let's not miss The Gift because our hands are full and there is too much on our plates. Let's make room in our hearts for the greatest of all gifts - The Light of the World, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Sweet Blessings,
LeAnn