Dear Osmond Community, Many Christmas’ ago, my uncle had an idea. He thought he would stir things up a bit when it came time for me and my cousins to open up our presents. So what did he do??? He hid them! He had us cousins search around Grandma and Grandpa’s house, following clue after clue. I don’t remember all of the places we looked, but I do remember digging through Grandma’s cleaning closet at one point. We took quite some time to find our gifts!
And I will tell you: after that year, we never took for granted how nice it was when our gifts were not hidden but were settled right where we expected them to be: right under the tree!
And how much of a blessing is this for you and me… that God does not hide the gift that He gives us — not this year or ever. Yes, some years we may feel like we are searching all over the place for peace, for joy, for comfort. Some years, we simply look in the wrong places for these things.
But years ago, God did not hide His gift to mankind. He didn’t hide Jesus, the source of true peace, joy, and comfort. In fact, hear the words that the angel of the Lord spoke to the shepherds long ago who were keeping watch over their flock by night. “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12). Through His angel, God told the shepherds who their gift was: the Savior for all people, Christ the Lord!
And God even told them where to find this gift: He was wrapped up, lying in a manger there in the city of David.
And today, God does not hide His gift from you either. Every year, Jesus is in the same place: in the manger, wrapped up in swaddling cloths for you. Every year, Jesus is in His Word and Sacraments where you can find Him, and He delivers to you His forgiveness and salvation through faith. As He died and rose for you, He freely gives you His peace, His joy, His comfort, and the gift of eternal life. How truly blessed are we.
This year, whether you are celebrating Christmas “as normal” or this year is different, may the Lord steady your hearts in His love for you. As you are able, may you gather together with God’s people in worship to hear and receive your Christmas gift: Jesus. A Blessed and Merry Christmas to you all!
