Love, the guest, is on the way.

It still brings me to tears that God became man to redeem us ordinary folks - that the Creator of the universe would be born in such humble circumstances and announce His coming to shepherds. The incarnation changes everything. Among them, it puts the lie to the Atheist claim that we need to be powerful, and Hollywood’s claim that we need to be popular, and the religious instinct that we must be perfect to reach God. 

We are none of these, and yet God became man out of love for us, be we poor widows, rich tax collectors, parents, children, businessmen, or backpackers. 

And that was just the beginning. He is at work even now to restore the entire universe under His rightful reign. As our pastor put it, to bring peace on Earth by defeating or transforming all His enemies. And we, weak you and me, get to be part of that work as members of His body! Making disciples of the nations, bringing light into darkness in every corner of the Earth, using the gifts and talents God has given us for His Glory. Praise God! 

So in honour of the God who loves a good celebration (Deut 14:22-27), indeed who made the very sun, moon and stars to remind us to feast (Gen 1:14), may your Christmas be merry and your New Year exceedingly happy indeed as we remember and await our Lord. 

Or, to quote one of my favourite Advent hymns:  

People, look east! The time is near

Of the crowning of the year.

Make your house fair as you are able,

Trim the hearth and set the table.

People, look east and sing today:

Love, the guest, is on the way.