>Every year Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Christ with joy and happiness. The birth of Mary’s child in the poor manger in Bethlehem was an event that changed human history. That little child was more than just another baby born on earth. That child was the one about whom the prophets spoke. He was the one whom God had promised to send in order to become the Savior of the world.

In a few days you will gather with your family and friends to celebrate God’s wonderful gift: the gift of His love. In a few days, people around the world will celebrate Christmas. This special day is generally celebrated by giving and receiving gifts. Remembering your Christmases past, what is the most precious and the most special Christmas gift you have ever received? Most of us are so blessed in life that at times it is hard to remember the gifts we have received.

As you reflect on the meaning of Christmas, think back to all the precious gifts God has given you in the past. None has been more special than the gift of His Son. At Christmas we think about the song of the angels, the joy of the shepherds, and the gifts of the Magi. However, it is the gift of God’s love that should motivate us to celebrate Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ is the greatest evidence of God’s love for you. Unto us a Savior is born.

Christmas is a great time to express love and concern for others. This is what God did by sending His only Son. God so loved the world that He sent His Son Jesus to give us eternal life and to reveal the extent of God’s love for you. This is the meaning of the angels’ words: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11).

As you and your loved ones celebrate the birth of Jesus this Christmas, pray for peace in the world and for peace in the hearts of men and women everywhere. Pray because you are celebrating the birth of the Prince of Peace.

I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and blessed Christmas. May the love of God manifested in the manger of Bethlehem enrich your life and the lives of your loved ones this Christmas Season. I pray you will make this Christmas a special day to honor God’s gift by offering Him sacrifices of praises and thanksgiving.

Claude Mariottini
Professor of Old Testament
Northern Baptist Seminary

Tag: Christmas

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