A Christmas Thought of the Day !!

This is the last devotion of the year.  We will start back in 2016 after taking next week off. - greg 

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. – Luke 2:1-7 (NRSV)

Today will be a busy day for many getting last minute shopping or cooking done.  It will be a day of sorrow for some because while everyone else is happy they deal with loss or some other sadness this season.  And then there are those who will find joy in the preparations and the excitement of the gift-giving and family gatherings and all the rest that comes annually at this magical time of the year.

No matter what is going on in your lives today, stop and remember the reason for Christmas.  Go back to the Bethlehem with Joseph and Mary, with shepherds and angels, and relive the magical story of God coming down to dwell with us.  Find the joy of a baby and the love of a Savior.  Seek the guidance of a Messiah and the forgiveness of the one filled with grace.  

Today seek Jesus in the gatherings, the gifts and celebration.  Find Him not only in a manger but also in your home...in your midst.  May the Joy that came down some 2000 plus years ago fill you today as you celebrate Him.

Merry Christmas!! 

greg