By Chris Hildenbrand
I recently read a story about a wealthy European family who decided to have their newborn son baptized in their enormous mansion. Dozens of guests were invited to the event, and they all arrived in the latest of fashions. After depositing their elegant coats on a bed in an upstairs room, the guests were entertained like royalty. Soon the time came for the main purpose of the evening, the infant’s baptism. When they asked for the child, no one seemed to know of his whereabouts. Panic ensued as they desperately searched for the baby. In a few minutes the child was found - buried underneath all of the coats, jackets and furs. The very object of the day’s celebration had been forgotten, neglected and nearly smothered. I wonder if this is not what happens around the holidays? If not for Christ, there would be no Christmas.
Christmas is all about the supernatural power of God. From the supernatural conception to the miraculous birth. There were at least four appearances of angels, a dream and a God-guided star. This same power is available to those that like the Magi, will bow down and worship the Christ. Don’t bury him under the trappings of Christmas and don’t neglect him by becoming more focused on the gifts than the Giver. Mary delivered Jesus, now let Jesus deliver you.