S-Z (ABCs of Christmas cont'd)

Merry Christmas Eve!!!

S-Shepherds. The shepherds were also chosen by God to hear the spectacular news about the birth of Jesus. God is no respecter of persons. He loves us all. It doesn't matter whether you work on Wall street or clean streets, He came to earth to save us all. We are all sinners in need of a Savior.

T-Tree. I always wonder why we hang up a tree on Christmas and decorate it. Here is some research: "Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition as we now know it in the 16th century when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Some built Christmas pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens and candles if wood was scarce. It is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree. Walking toward his home one winter evening, composing a sermon, he was awed by the brilliance of stars twinkling amidst evergreens. To recapture the scene for his family, he erected a tree in the main room and wired its branches with lighted candles." I'm sure the tradition happened for a particular reason, but the way I see it is Jesus was born so that He could ultimately die for our sins. He spread his arms wide and hung on a tree. He loves us so much and at Christmas we celebrate his love and his glorious birth. Let us never forget why He came.

U-Unchanging God (John helped me with this one.) Throughout the Bible and history you can see God's truth, His faithfulness, and His unchanging love. The way that prophecy always comes true to the letter, the way Scripture is fulfilled even now, it is amazing and awesome to see the handiwork of God. Great is thy faithfulness.

V-Victory (John is good at this.) We know that through the birth of Christ we have Victory in Jesus! Ephesians 4:8 The Psalmist tells about this, for he says that when Christ returned triumphantly to heaven after his resurrection and victory over Satan, he gave generous gifts to men.

W-Wise Men The wise men followed the star to see the baby Jesus. But if you want to be wise now you will still seek after God with your whole heart. He will not fail you. Those who seek Him with their heart will find Him. Deuteronomy 4:29 "But you will also begin to search again for Jehovah your God, and you shall find him when you search for him with all your hearts and souls."

X-Xristos (Greek way of saying Christ/the long awaited Savior) It must've been amazing to be there and see Christ at His birth and during His ministry. I am anxious to see Him when He comes again for His children.

Y- You! Jesus came and died for you! Even if you were the only person on earth, that would have been enough for Him to reconcile you to God. We all are so valuable to Him. Think about the love you have for your own child or family member, wouldn't you do just about anything for them...well, God created You and He loves you even more than us humans can even comprehend!

Z-Zacharia's Prophecy. Luke 1:67-79 (only part of it is featured here...take the time to read it all) "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to visit his people and has redeemed them. He is sending us a Mighty Savior from the royal line of his servant David just as he promised through his holy prophets long ago--someone to save us from our enemies, from all who hate us!"

Thank you Jesus for being born. Happy Birthday!