Heather role-playing Mary and baby Jesus
From the moment the Thanksgiving turkey graces the table until my children unwrap the last present beneath the tree, my radio is set to local stations boasting of jingle bells and roasting chestnuts. Yesterday, the words “you’d better watch out, you’d better not cry, better not pout–I’m telling you why” bounced around the living room while my daughter tried to convince me–and her older brothers–that Santa Claus “is too” real.
Heather’s continued belief is surprising given a recent school event. Having just lost her seventh tooth and wanting to share her bounty of wisdom, my daughter perched on top of a bench in the lunch room and announced to all of the 2nd grade students within range, “There is NO tooth fairy. Your parent’s are the tooth fairy!”
Still, this same little girl is convinced she saw Saint Nick one distant Christmas night. And the childhood fantasy continues…for now.
Unlike the fantasy, though, there is One who does more than watch us pout or cry. He is more concerned about our heart condition than our outward behavior. He is more interested in giving His life than sharing a toy that will be broken in a few months. Instead of watching from afar, He left heaven’s perfection to bring salvation to imperfect men.
He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and Omega. He is the creator of heaven and earth. He is the babe in the manger, the sacrificial Lamb, and the firstborn from the dead. He is Jesus. And whether people believe or not–He is real.
Scripture for Reflection
“O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know my every thought when far away. You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You both precede and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.” Psalm 139:1-5