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“Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.” Hebrews 12:28 (ESV)

Cold, frosty morning standing in line at Starbucks. Caught the twinkle in little eyes at the mention of Santa. Warm Java satisfying parents – expected Christmas joy exciting toddlers. Hopeful promises of gifts around the tree decked with lights. Innocence believes………eyes wide open in awe on Christmas morn.

Cries in a stable. Pain births life. Mary and Joseph cradling the very Son of God in their arms. Wrapped in swaddling clothes nestled in hay. Everything Mary pondered in her heart quieted in the wonder of the moment. Innocence believes……eyes wide open gazing on the Christ child.

Beautiful sight – starry night. Shepherds watching their flock. Years of expecting…patiently waiting for the Messiah’s birth. Angels appearing – singing glory to God in the highest – proclaiming the Son of God is born. Innocence believes….. eyes wide open that first Christmas morn.

An unexpected journey. Seeking to find the promised One. Traveling from afar. Overjoyed beyond measure. Face down, bowed low worshipping the young boy. Presenting their best gold, frankincense and myrrh. Innocence believes….eyes wide open in the presence of the King.

Hopeful, pondering, expectant, overjoyed……where does Christmas find us this year? Is our hope found in the Christ child? Does pondering cultivate doubt or deepen our trust in God’s sovereignty? Have our unrealistic expectations quieted our praise? Has an unexpected journey taken us far – desperately seeking?

Eyes wide open….believing….trusting….hoping. Isn’t that how we remember Christmas? The heart and innocence of childlike faith captivated by the Christmas story. Sitting on the edge of our seat taking in every detail mesmerized at the wonder of His birth. The glorious awe of Jesus presence into our world on Christmas morning still breathes life and peace into the souls of man.  Hope faded is reignited.  Trust diminished begins to flourish.  Joy once silent breaks out in song  – “Oh holy night, a thrill of hope the world rejoices – Christ is the Lord, O praise His name forever.”

“Father, elevate our worship of Your Son this Christmas morn – open our eyes to see the radiance of Your glory!”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life

Wishing you and your family a blessed and Merry Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Savior.