I’ve really been enjoying my advent readings this year. The first week was full of amazement as I read the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus. I was so moved about God’s zeal and preparation for the event. The second week was fun as I read about the actual events of the birth of Jesus. Again I was moved by God’s plan – sending John the Baptist to prepare people, having Magi travel to see Jesus, having angels inform lowly shepherds that Jesus was born. I know the story but each time I read it I’m moved.
And then came this week. The reading guide I’m using jumps to the last weeks of Jesus’ life. Now suddenly the story of Jesus isn’t about a baby in a manger. But it’s about a man of suffering. The Lord Jesus who has come to give His life for His friends. For his loved ones. It’s so easy during Christmas to forget about what is coming. Even in reading Psalm 22, which is all about suffering, it was easy to see the last verses of celebrate why Jesus came - to set us free. But the pain of the cross is always in the background of the Christmas story.
The Baby Jesus did come to set us free. He came because he loves us. He came so we might have life and have it abundantly. But He also come to die for our sins. This is the "dark" side of Christmas. It's still good news - Jesus came to give His life, but as we look at the Baby we mustn't forget what's next.
The Gospel (good news) is that Jesus loves us and he came for us as a baby. That’s Christmas. But let’s not forget the rest of the story. Let’s not forget the background of the cross that waits for our Baby Lord Savior.
