The true meaning of Christmas


We are all familiar with the manger scene.  Its generally a part of the Christmas decorations in most churches foyers.  You may find it in a few homes of your friends or family.
I was out for a run this morning.  

 It was dark, quiet, crisp.

 As I ran, in the quiet I realized that the greatest gift was given to us from a God who loves us fiercely.

He sent His Son to be born, so that he could grow up and die for us.  The Cross is a symbol of grace, mercy, forgiveness and peace.

 How often do we truly accept the gift of forgiveness?  We are a broken people and without knowing it on a daily basis we hurt people.  We hurt them with our words, our actions, our attitudes.  We cheat, kill, destroy.  We deceive, lie, steal.  We judge people because they don't look like us, or like we want them to look.  We judge people because they have different beliefs and opinions than ours. 

Why would God send his son to die for people like that?  I realized this early morning that if I got no other gift, the gift of forgiveness is the greatest gift.  I don't deserve yet its offered freely.  Its up to me to accept it, and then walk in that forgiveness.  

 This past year was filled with many ups and down, twists and turns.  I had some highs, some lows.  I was happy and sad, lonely at times and blessed beyond measure at other times.  What I deserve this Christmas is less than what I'm getting.  But,  because of God's great and amazing love for me, I am forgiven. 

 Will you receive the gift of forgiveness this Christmas?  It truly is the best Christmas gift of all.  Its free for anyone who asks. 

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