Micah 5:1-4 / Hebrews 10:5-10 / Luke 1:39-44
For us Christians, the central expression of Christmas is none other than the Nativity Scene.
There can be all the other decorations like the Christmas tree, the fairy lights, presents, etc.
But, the Nativity Scene takes the central focus among all these other decorations.
It has to be. It must be.
Because when we see the Baby Jesus lying in the manger, it reminds us of the fulfilment of that age-old promise of God.
The Saviour has been born, the Word of God was made flesh.
The love of God is expressed in the reality of the human situation.
But the Nativity Scene is not only about the baby in the manger.
There is Mary, whose “yes” at the Anunciation enabled God to come into the world.
There is Joseph, who didn't fully understand everything but nonetheless did the right and just thing.
And there were the shepherds, the sheep, as well as the cow and the donkey.
What is so fascinating about the Nativity Scene is that each figurine and each object has a story to tell.
And all the stories point to that one main story, and that is God's great love for humanity.
That is the great mystery of the Christmas story.
It is about the unconditional and sacrificial love of God for sinners.
It is also an expression of God's love in the people around us.
Mary reminds us of those who care for us with a tender love.
Joseph reminds us of those who protected and provided for us.
The shepherds remind us of the lowly and unseen workers who provided us with the essential services.
Even the donkey and the cow remind us of the burdens of life and the sacrifices we have to make.
So, the Nativity Scene is about God's love for us.
It is also about our love for each other.
Christmas is about love and the celebration of love.
God has fulfilled His promise of love.
Let us promise to love God and may that love be expressed in our relationships with one another as we celebrate Christmas.