From the Manse – December 2008

“You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12)

I was browsing through some Christmas images to use one as an appropriate illustration of the meaning of the occasion. Then I found this by a Hungarian artist Andras Simon. Somebody remarked it is a nice picture, but one hardly can see Jesus in it. He was right, indeed He is hardly visible on it, but it is exactly this aspect that makes the image so relevant today.

There are so many images that imply the coming of Christmas. Christmas trees are decorated, homes adorned with bright flashing lights, preparations for Christmas dinner keep us busy, and in the celebration – Jesus is hardly visible.

People keep notice and are waiting for the sales and the best bargains. (The other day Sue was in one of the great retailers in Glasgow and remarked it to the lady at the counter that it was very quiet in the shop. ‘Yes – she answered – everybody is waiting for the 20% off sale that will start tomorrow.’ Well, we missed it again.) Presents are exchanged as an expression of love, and even in that – Jesus is hardly visible.

Children’s attention is focused on Santa Claus and the attractions of grottos, where – Jesus is not at all visible.

On special stamps to mark the occasion (the birthday of Jesus Christ!) it is more likely to find some wintery scene or a panto character – for Jesus is hardly visible in today’s Christmas.

It seems that the western world celebrates a Christmas without Christ; a birthday without a birth; and the coming of a kingdom without a king.

But one had to look for Him on the first Christmas night too! I am afraid I never quite appreciated enough the words of the angels to the shepherds: “You will find a baby…” What an encouragement and promise. You will surely find Him if you go and look for Him. Therefore so did the shepherds and later the magi.

Can those who are seeking more this Christmas than just the mince pies, mould wine and good time, find Him? Can they find Him in us that are called to be His followers? Let us seek and display Him in our celebrations. May we find Him afresh in our midst, in our lives, so that we will be able to show His love and power when the celebrations are gone. For we are celebrating a living Saviour whose return we are awaiting.

Have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

With every blessing,

From your minister, George