LESSONS OF LOVE

Luke 2:8-11 (TNIV) “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

It is a joyful occasion when a child is born. But THIS child was the One prophesied to come; the Messiah, the One who would come and free Israel. God’s plan differed quite a bit from theirs though. Israel was expecting a mighty King who would lead them in battle over their oppressors, not a babe in swaddling clothes born among beasts of burden in a manger. This flew in the face of their ideals regarding their Messiah. God knew what was required, they did not.

Today people want what they want, whatever their heart desires. Some think of God as this benevolent being up in the sky somewhere who will grant them untold riches just for the asking, like some type of Genie in a bottle. When things don’t turn out the way they want they decide to not believe in this “god” anymore. They can get what they want without His help. If only they could see that which is truly important, even vital to their survival. It is not in the things we acquire, but rather in the things we give away. And it is not in the material possessions given away, but rather in the non-tangibles.

We are to bless others as we have been blessed, not necessarily with money, because not everyone is able to do that, but with kindness and goodness. We are to treat others the way we would like to be treated, regardless of whether we are treated likewise. We are to love others as God loves us. We are to give away to any in need infinite portions of mercy and grace. We are to be patient and joyful. In spite of instructions to the contrary, we continue to strive for that which is unattainable. Money, no matter how much, will NEVER make a person happy, content or satisfied. For happiness is not in what we HAVE, but rather is derived from what we give to others.

Christ came as a meek and mild infant, born of a woman, born in a manger. He was a commoner by most standards. Because of who He was He should have been born in a palace with opulence all around Him, but God knew what was required, so He sent Him to earth to live among regular people, those who God knew would recognize Him for Who He truly was. He came to rule and reign over our hearts, not over our countries. His Kingdom is not seen by mortal eyes, but rather requires spiritual vision to see.

The journey to Calgary began in a manger among animals. He did not rise up and rule over man, but rather showed them over time how to love their fellow man. They were taught not to keep these lessons of love to themselves but rather to spread the word all the way to today, to you and me. Christ really started something when He came to earth as a baby over 2000 years ago. What are you doing with these lessons of love you have learned?

WALK WITH THE KING TODAY AND BE A BLESSING!