Christ Is The Reason

by Rev Greg Obong-Oshotse 11 December 2020

Matthew 1:21 “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

The story is told of a European nobleman who invited guests to a lavish dinner in honour of the birth of an heir. After the feasting, it was time to present the child to the distinguished noblemen and noblewomen who had come to grace the occasion. But the child was nowhere to be found. The whole house was combed down. Still he could not be found. Finally, one of the maids noticed a pile of guests’ coats and cloaks nicely laid up in a corner, all atop a solid wooden pram. Underneath was the little noble.

Advent and Christmas can sometimes be so festive that attention shifts away from the Christ child, the reason for the celebration. It is hardly likely that it will be so this year. Since Covid-19 dropped into our globe about a year ago, the very foundations of normal life have been sorely shaken. Amidst ill-health and death, the tears flow. Surrounded by loss and bereavement, sadness is commonplace. Covered by clouds of fear and uncertainty, confidence eludes many. Yet it’s not all gloom. That canvas provides humanity with a backdrop for reflection on the meaning of life itself, and an examination of the reason for the season. Matthew says it is a rescue mission with Christ at the centre of operations. Painstakingly, he traces His genealogy to establish His identity. And points humanity in His direction.

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Prayer Dear Father may we remember the reason for the season in Christ’s name, Amen