CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Written by Luz Leigh – 19 December 2007

      As I read my daily Bible reading this morning from Open Windows, published by LifeWay, I was reminded of how we decorate our homes, yards, and sometimes even our cars, at this time of the year, but nothing we do can compare with the beauty and majesty of God’s creation. I would like to quote from the above referenced publication.

      “O Lord our Lord, how excellent is that name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.” Psalm 8:1

      “With delight I watched the hawk light on a branch in my backyard. Nose pressed to the glass, I couldn’t tear myself away from watching this surprise visitor. I marveled over his golden feathers and the regal way he perched on the tree limb---and he’s just one among thousands of God’s creatures!

      “When was the last time you were awed over God’s majesty? Does something still stir in your heart at the sight of majestic mountains, or has the multi-hued sunset become ho-hum?

      “Psalm 8 chronicles the writer’s praise for God’s majesty as displayed in His creation. Sometimes we find His splendor in unexpected places or at unexpected moments. To be sure, we want to avoid worshipping the creation in place of the Creator. But God is surely pleased when we stop and take notice of His marvelous handiwork.

      “As beautiful as our world is, it will pale in comparison to what is to come. Someday we will face Him on his magnificent throne and worship His majesty forevermore.”

      People go to great lengths to prepare their homes and yards with elaborate decorations to celebrate the Christmas season. But for some it has become a challenge to see who can display the most lights, in the most unusual manner. Trying always to outdo their neighbors. This would be well and good if they would remember the true meaning of Christmas. We are told in the Bible that a great star in the east led the Magi to the Holy Child. Many who place a star on the top of their Christmas tree have not a clue what that star represents….the way to the Christ. We no longer seek a precious babe in the manger nor a young child residing with his parents in exile in Egypt, but the risen Savior.

      The Magi, who were learned men, wealthy in worldly goods, sought the “one who has been born king of the Jews”. They “saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:2 NIV 

      It is my hope that as you and others drive through the brightly lit neighborhoods, somehow the true reason for the lights will come to you….. a reminder of the Light of the world, and that just as the Magi followed the star, so will you follow the Star. 

      MERRY CHRISTMAS