‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year…’ or so the popular Christmas tune goes. As a bubbly little brunette in pigtails wearing her favorite red dress and looking forward to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins gathering in our small ranch home in cold and snowy northern Illinois, the excitement was palpable. Soon we would be celebrating the birth of Jesus, singing Christmas carols, opening gifts, and eating delicious Swedish food—including herring, rice pudding with lingonberries, Limpa bread, Bond-Ost (pronounced boond oost) cheese, sylte, hardtack, cardamon rolls, and ham.
Later, as a young woman, I would fully grasp how important the birth of Jesus truly is. The deity of Christ exalts Him above all others. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” -Isaiah 9:6
Throughout scripture, we see the word “wonderful” used to both describe our savior’s attributes and actions. Abraham (in regards to Sarah being pregnant) was reminded that nothing is too wonderful for the Lord (Genesis 18:14). Joshua discovered that God did wonderful things in the midst of His people (Joshua 3:5). David lifted up his voice and sang praises to the Lord as he meditated on the wonderful works of God. (Psalm 105:2).
God’s full understanding of our humanity comes from His deity. “The son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” -Hebrews 1:3
Consider this: We believers are members of His royal court! I should gladly bow the knee to serve Him; it is my delight and honor. But do I gladly bow the knee or grumble? This time of year is busy and can certainly be stressful as we zip around in attempts to get all of our tasks completed and spend additional time with family and friends—some relationships that can be considered messy and complicated at best. How will I respond?
The most wonderful things about this Christmas season include worshipping with fellow believers, singing traditional Christmas carols and really focusing on the words and their deeper meaning, and looking for opportunities to show Christ’s love within our church family and community. What a joy to humble ourselves before the Christ child and the wonderful gift of salvation that He brings!
Let’s pray: Lord, let my eyes be lifted to your higher court and coronation as wonderful King Jesus, not focusing on trivial earthly matters but acting on behalf of your kingdom, sharing the gospel and looking forward to your eternal rule.
With Love in Christ,
Diana