Who Do You See?

Who do you see when observing a nativity scene at church, the mall, or a neighbor’s lawn? Do you smile at the sweet baby Jesus in the manger with Mary and Joseph gazing at their child, the wise men and shepherds looking on?

What were Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and wise men thinking? Each had special visitations from angels or through dreams regarding the Christ Child. Now, they were gazing at the promised one. What must have gone through their minds? Were they looking at this precious baby boy with awe as God incarnate? Even though the angels had visited them, could they possibly understand who they were looking at? Did they see the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Mighty Counselor, and Prince of Peace?

The sweet nativity scenes, the adorable children in the Christmas pageant, and the tender candlelight services can become superficial traditions. It is so tempting to leave Jesus in the manger as a small, needy, and helpless babe. We can accept this same state for ourselves. Without Jesus, we are indeed small, impoverished, and powerless, but praise God when we ask Jesus into our lives; he transforms us and creates a new person. When we look into His face, we see the Father, the creator of heaven and earth. We see the Holy one, the promised one, the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Mighty Counselor, Prince of Peace. We see the glory of the Lord and have access to the one who is our strength, joy, and salvation.

Who will you see this year as you observe the season of Christ’s birth?

Beloved, as you peer into the nativity this year, raise your eyes, lift your heart, and see Jesus the One who chose to be a baby and grew into a man who gave Himself for you. Let Him be your King of Kings to reign in your heart. Let Him be the Mighty Counselor who guides you and the Prince of Peace who comforts and reassures you.

Let Jesus bring you great joy this season.

Blessings,

Personal Parables Practices

What fills your thoughts during this season of Christmas?
What is one change you can make to focus more intently on the gift of Jesus?
Who can you encourage to worship the Lord Jesus as their King of Kings and Lord of Lords?

An Advent Prayer

God of heaven and earth, thank you for sending your son as the only gift I need. Give me eyes to see Him, ears to hear Him and a heart to fully accept Him as my Lord and my God. Amen.

Scripture for Meditation

Isaiah 9:6 (NIV) – For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Revelation 19:16 (NIV) – On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: King of Kings and Lord of Lords.