The Inspiration
There’s sometimes a disconnect in how we celebrate or perceive wonderful gifts. Our usual idea of Christmas is a hall decked with tinsels, bells and presents galore under a big Christmas tree. There was no fireworks celebration at the birth of Jesus. Interestingly, the greatest gift of Christmas cannot be placed under a tree. This silent gift only came to fruition some 30 years later on the tree of calvary.
The Blessing
Part of the proceeds from the sale of the Edible Christmas Story Cakes will go towards Star PALS (Paediatric Advanced Life Support, a service by HCA Hospice Care dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and minors up to 19 years of age, with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions at no charge, regardless of age, religion, ethnicity, nationality and financial status.)
1 | Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
God chose this small, quiet, out of the way place for a significant event in history.
Do you feel small and little compared to others?
The deepest meaning of the littleness of Bethlehem is that our significance is not defined on the basis of our merit or our achievement.
2 | Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light
The star led the wise men who followed this extraordinary light on an 800km journey to baby Jesus.
What areas of your life appear dim, unexciting and hopeless?
The same star that led the wise men to baby Jesus can illuminate your path.
3 | For Christ is Born of Mary
Mary was an ordinary small-town girl and her qualifications as mother of Jesus were obedience, courage, faith, and purity. They were all that God needed for His assignment
Have you been called to do something that seems bigger than what you believe about yourself? God has a different selection criteria when it comes to His purpose.
4 | O morning stars together proclaim the holy birth
Angel literally means messenger. An angel appeared to Mary to announce the birth of Christ.
An angel appeared to Joseph telling him that what was conceived in Mary was from the Holy Spirit.
An angel appeared to shepherds informing them of the birth of Jesus.
What message has been impressed upon your heart this Christmas?
5 | Where meek souls will receive him still
Shepherds had no power or influence in society but God chose the lowest members of society to entrust the greatest truth of the ages.
What’s keeping you from knowing the truth? Do you need to surrender pride?
God chose the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise.
6 | So God imparts to human hearts, the blessings of His heaven
That night presented many baffling things: the King of Kings finding no place in an inn; being born and laid in a manger; and having shepherds, among others, as His guests. God often brings us to a place so that He can speak into to our hearts.
Where have you felt God’s presence even in the mangers of your life?
