When we think of Christmas , our minds often fill with images of glowing lights , gifts and joyous celebrations . But there is a profound truth that we should all step back and consider this time of year Extraordinary humility .
Jesus Christ came into the world not as a king , as the world thought and expected , but the Word became flesh , surrounded by animals and the most humbling beginnings . Most of us read that story and don't think a lot about it , but consider how important those details are .
The most powerful man on the planet , the ruler of the heavens , was not born in a palace surrounded by wealth and splendor , but Jesus Christ was born in a manger , a feeding trough for animals . His parents weren't wealthy , but common individuals given an uncommon purpose .
None of this was an accident or an oversight , but it was done intentionally for all of us to recognize and consider the humbling beginnings of the greatest leader ever to walk the planet . Send a message to all of us Greatness and purpose has nothing to do with status or wealth or power or position .
It has everything to do with serving others , encouraging others and loving others . It's easy this time of year to get caught up in the business of the season check the boxes , buy the gifts , show up at the Christmas gathering , but I suggest to you this time of year . Christmas calls for a much deeper investment in those around you .
The humble beginnings of Christ calls us to shift our focus from materialism to connection . Rather than fighting the lines to get that perfect gift , consider giving the most important gift we can give others our time and our attention . As we enter the next year , why not continue that journey ? The humility displayed by Jesus in his birth never stopped .
When tempted in the wilderness , he could have turned the stone into bread . As he labored in Gethsemane , he could have summoned a host of angels to his rescue . When mocked on the cross , he could have silenced the jeers by coming down . What he could have done had nothing to do with his purpose . It had nothing to do with his calling .
It had nothing to do with him . Just as Christ was born into humility , he suffered and died in the most humiliating way for each of us . Think about that . His purpose was an exchange His life for ours . The life of humility turned the world upside down and it's never been the same . Death became life .
Suffering produced joy and wrath , brought peace , peace on earth and goodwill towards men . Merry Christmas , and God bless each of you .