The focus of Christmas must always be on remembering the gift given

The focus of Christmas must always be on remembering the gift given: The birth, His life, His death, and the resurrection of Jesus. Draw near to God as you reflect on His gift of love. The birth of Jesus gives great insight into the character of God. For you can see His methods are far different from your own; "His thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways His ways" (Isaiah 55:8). Would you bring the King of Kings into the world through two common young people in a dirty stable? But God had a purpose. These lowest of beginnings set the example for a life of humility. Jesus Christ is the Creator of the Universe! "For by Him all things were created" (Colossians 1:16). Yet, He humbled Himself to the point of being born with the animals and continued by humbly walking all the way to the cross.

As you reflect on His humility, then you can relook on how you can make prideful demands on what you think you need in your life. How can you assume there is a standard to which you are entitled? Jesus set the standard for humility and you are now called to follow; "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5).The greatest insight you can learn from the birth of Jesus is simply that He came. Your sin was detestable and vile to God for He is holy, but He came to live with humans...and love you! Without Jesus, you have absolutely no hope - you can do nothing to save yourself from the bondage of sin and the eternal separation from Him. You can do nothing, yet God made the first move to set you free. He took the initiative in your Salvation by providing a way.

1 John 4:9 "This is how God showed His love: He sent His one and only Son into the world that you might live through Him."

God clearly saw your sinful condition; and yet, He loved you enough to send His Son so you might be restored to a right relationship with Him. He sent His Son so you might live! God made the first move 2000 years ago and He continues to make the first move in your life today. He called long before you could even recognize His voice, and He continues to call you to surrender your life and live with Him in a deeper and more intimate relationship.

Hear His call today and respond! It's a great privilege to hear His call, so be encouraged...but then respond! His call cost Him dearly, and it represents a love you will never fully understand. Boldly answer and follow wherever He leads. And remember through the race of Christmas the meaning of Christmas is The Gift God Gave you. He loved you enough to make the first move. HE SENT JESUS.