Now as many folks know, we really don't have any clear idea on what day Jesus' birth truly occurred. From a careful look at the birth stories in the New Testament, we can discern that it was not in late December — not with shepherds out in the fields with their flocks at night. Yet we celebrate the birth of Jesus with little guys like Eli this time of year. Why?
For me, there is a very simple explanation. We need to be reminded. Underneath the holiday season now so encrusted with its present buying and commercial blitz, we need to be reminded of the greater gift. In the wildness and isolation of our busy lives we need to be reminded of God's overwhelming love. In the predictability of our lives so governed by pattern and ruts we need to be reminded of eternity's surprise. The birth story of Jesus is such a simple and straightforward joy with the long journey, the stable, the manger, the angels, the shepherds, and the Son of God. Our world needs to hear this story. As believers, we need to pray each season that God will reach the hearts of young children and cynical adults with this reminder and that he will help them see Jesus with fresh and wonder-filled eyes.
At another level, those of us "older Christians" need this yearly celebration, too. We need to be reminded that like baby Eli, we have been asked to play the role of Jesus in our world. When we confessed Jesus as Lord and were baptized into Christ, we put on Christ. (Galatians 3:26-29) More than being "born again" in our conversion to Christ, Jesus is born anew in us through the work of the Holy Spirit. (John 3:3-7;Titus 3:3-7) Much more than just a garment we put on and occasionally wear, Jesus wants to become fully formed in us. (Galatians 4:19;Colossians 1:28-29) The Holy Spirit works in our lives to conform us into the glorious presence of Jesus as we understand the Lord more fully and display his character more completely. (2 Corinthians 3:18)
Christmas is a special time when we remember the birth of our Savior and celebrate the wondrous and sacrificial love of God. However, it can be so much more than we can imagine if we will let the Savior have his way in us. This season can be a holy reminder of what the Lord wants us to be in the world — his living presence to hearts that really don't know God's grace, love, character, compassion, and grace.
Yes, it was quite an honor for baby Eli to be chosen to be baby Jesus this Christmas. However, let's not forget that we are honored to be Jesus everyday to the world clothed in darkness and need of God's saving grace. So let's make the celebration of this season a powerful reminder that Jesus is not only born in us, but wants to be fully formed in us so the world can see God's glory in everyday life.
Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I am going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives. (Galatians 4:19 NLT)
