At this time of the year a common question is “Are you ready for Christmas?” That’s a loaded question. It may mean “Have you finished shopping? Did you send your Christmas cards? Are your decorations up? Are all your presents wrapped?” Fortunately the question is just small talk. It’s kind of like saying “How are you?” But it’s interesting that people ask it. We all recognize Christmas is a big deal and there’s a lot to do to be prepared for it.
Let’s look at how God the Father prepared for the first Christmas. When we prepare for Christmas we have a month or two to get everything done. The Father started to prepare for Jesus’ birth before time began Titus 1:2-3. Here are 7 specific ways the Father prepared for the first Christmas.
Over the course of thousands of years the Father chose different people who were willing participants in His plan. He used the obedience of godly people who didn't have to obey. He also used people in His plan who didn't know they were part of His plan. It’s likely the Emperor of Rome had no idea his decree for a census was God’s will. He even used an unborn baby to confirm the wonder of what would soon happen Luke 1:44-45.
[Tweet "Jesus’ birth was a really big deal to the Father!"]
The Father prepared because His will was important to Him then and it still is today. His careful preparation tells us
[Tweet "Let's worship the Father for the wonderful way He prepared for Jesus birth!"]
However, His plans aren't finished. He still has a part for you and me. What does He want you do for Him today?
I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment or question below.
This is the second in a series of short stories in which I take the biblical account of Christmas and weave in details as I imagine they happened. In this story I imagine what Mary may have written if she kept a diary. The Bible is inspired by God, my writing is not. I hope
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This is a series of short stories in which I take the biblical story of Christmas and weave in details as I imagine they happened. The Bible is inspired by God, my writing is not. I hope my additions make this story come to life personally for you. The Christmas Story Part 1 “I’m praying
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Mary’s Christmas Story I need to sleep, but I can’t. It’s quiet now. Joseph is out getting more fuel for the fire. Jesus is sleeping peacefully beside me. I’m exhausted but I don’t want to sleep. So many wonderful things have happened today, I want to soak it all in. I don’t want this moment
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