All You Want for ChristmasSample

What Child is This?

“What child is this who lay to rest on Mary's lap is sleeping….this is Christ the King!”

Think

For me, part of the excitement of Christmas is opening gifts. The tension of emotions from what is hoped for, what is hidden, and then to what is finally revealed. And even if the gift is simple or something I didn’t need or want, the fact that someone cared brings a deep level of satisfaction.

The carol “What Child is This?” reminds us that Jesus came to us quietly, simply, a small helpless baby being cared for by His teenage mom. The tension of a king, who one day every knee will bow and confess that He is King, resting in His mother’s arms, found in a lowly stable designed for animals.

This carol reminds us to find Him in the seemingly insignificant or even unexpected things surrounding us: the happiness of sharing a cup of coffee with a good friend; the joy of holding a newborn child; the contentment of a warm blanket on a cold winter’s night; or the knowledge that God knows, loves, and cares for us.

During this busy Christmas season, it’s so easy to get lost in the swirl of activities. We often miss those little touches that He provides. Or we have expectations of what should happen in order for Christmas to be successful. But remember, He came simply, quietly, in an unexpected way, even though He was already the King.

Apply

This Christmas I encourage you to find Him in the small things around you. To find Him in the still small voice inside of you, the little emotional hug you feel when praying, or in the acts of kindness you see all around you. To find Him in the midst of your tough situations and to know that He cares.

Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this season that we can celebrate Jesus coming as a baby. Help me to see you in the small things around me. May I find the happiness, joy, and contentment in knowing Jesus as my King, as I remember His birth, as a baby resting in Mary’s arms. Thank you for this gift and knowing that you care about me, love me, and promise to be with me throughout all that life brings. Amen.

Author - Greg Petershiem is the Executive Pastor at Grace Point Church in Paradise, PA. With his kids all grown up, Greg and his wife, Tina, now share their home with their two cats and one little diva dog. In his spare time, Greg enjoys riding motorcycles and playing guitar.