And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger…

 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Luke 2:7, 14 (NKJV)

Photo by Ann Voskamp

Photo by Ann Voskamp

Normal high-energy festivities that surround our household on these special days have been postponed until tomorrow due to the “accident” (definition: an unfortunate incident that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally, typically resulting in damage or injury).

I’ve had a lot of time to reflect on the Christmas story this year whether it was in song, devotions, books, blogs, TV commentary, or even the movie, “The Nativity Story.” It seemed to be everywhere.

But I can’t help but contrast the FOXNEWS special on the Nativity Story that aired last night and the movie I watched this afternoon.

I listened to learned theologians, archeologists, Biblical scholars, ministers, and priests discuss various aspects of the story of Jesus’ birth. I’ve been to Bethlehem and visited the site designated as His birthplace. It was with a feeling of awe that I stood in the place where Jesus was born. Whether that is the exact place or not, we know Bethlehem was chosen by God as his birth city.

Many of the details of His birth were debated but I think it is easier to simply believe the Biblical account of what happened. That is what faith is all about. Jesus was born to give us the HOPE we longed for over the centuries. In that tiny baby, God fulfilled His promise to us and a King was born.

Hallelujah!

Merry Christmas. Peace, goodwill toward men.