I remember well the excitement and anticipation I felt before Christmas when I was a child. With six children in our family, there was always a large pile of presents under the tree. Special gifts stand out in my mind: a two-wheel bicycle, my first wristwatch, and new clothes.
I especially remember the time our handicapped brother, who was unable to ride a bicycle, received a car that he could pedal and steer by himself. I walked beside him as he pedaled, helping him to turn the car around when he reached the corner. The look on my brother’s face was priceless as he enjoyed the freedom of riding down the sidewalk.
As I’ve grown to adulthood, I’ve never lost the excitement that accompanies grandchildren opening the gifts my husband and I have chosen for them. But the excitement also comes from the joy we have as a family, of celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Singing Christmas carols, decorating, planning for Advent readings and the lighting of candles at church, sending cards to keep in touch with friends and family at a distance, all of these activities help me to focus on the reason for the season.
As I’ve aged, I’ve come to anticipate not only Christmas, but the Second Advent of our Savior, who will come to rule in person over the kingdom of those who follow Him. What an exciting time awaits those who will be caught up to meet Him in the air! We can look forward to an eternity of being in the presence of Jesus, who will take His rightful place on the throne. The crown He wears will not be made of thorns. Nor will His robe be gambled for by a bunch of sinners out to destroy Him. His rule will be characterized by love and mercy, and especially peace.
The time of His return grows closer each day. Are you ready to join Him? This Christmas, I pray you will receive the best gift ever given: salvation and eternity with Jesus. You will then anticipate with joy His coming again.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved (Romans 10:9-10, NIV).
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