December Newsletter

Humility is an interesting word. The dictionary defines it as “the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance.” I look around me and there seems to be a lack of humility in our culture. Everyone seems to have an inflated view of their self importance. As we come into the Christmas season, you will experience long lines filled with people more important than you. As I look at the Christmas story there is one word that jumps out at me more than anything else, and that is humility.

Jesus was born, the King of kings, the Lord of lords. He is praised and worshiped by all the heavenly bodies and yet came to us as a defenseless child. He wasn’t born in large mansion, surrounded by the luxuries. He was born in a manger surrounded by livestock and straw. He should have been wrapped in the finniest linen, but he was wrapped in simple blanket. The Word became flesh in the humblest of ways. All of the world leaders should have been there and worshiped him, but it was the shepherds who were invited.

Not only was Jesus humble in his birth but he lived his short life in deep humility. Jesus, God in flesh emptied himself and made himself nothing, taking on the very nature of a servant, in the likeness of a human being. As a man he humbled himself and became obedient to death, the death of a common criminal, nailed to a cross!

So this Christmas season as you start to get caught up in the season, remember the humility of Christ. Reflect on Him and what He means to your life. It is through Him Christmas has its meaning and purpose. It is through Him we have the greatest gift of all and that is forgiveness of sin and promise of everlasting life. With Him we receive in abundance all the joy, peace, love we all long for. The greatest gift given at Christmas isn’t something bought in a store, it is Jesus. So as you gather with friends and family, take time to share the Christmas story. Tell them of our great King who was born in manger and how he gave his life for you and I. Share the greatest gift ever given, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Amen.

-ps