PresbyCan Daily Devotional

Matthew 18:4 – Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (ESV)

Our young son has been responsible for setting out the Fisher-Price Little People Nativity set at Christmastime since he was a toddler. He loved placing the colourful, chunky people and animals in their places within the Christmas story that was unfolding inside his plastic toy creche.

One year while we were decorating, I noticed that he had added to the scene. All his other Fisher-Price Little People had joined the holy family, shepherds, and wise men. A line had formed, and a motley crew crowded around the baby Jesus: Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Joker, a mechanic, a kid with cotton candy, and a clown were among the group. There were people of all ages and colours. There were good guys and so-called "bad guys". All were accepted and welcome at the feet of Jesus. My son thought that everyone should be included and present as the baby King entered the world to save us. I both laughed and cried at the sight of the eclectic mix of visitors that my son had brought to surround the Christ Child. Whimsical in its presentation, it depicted a scene of peace, love, and collective worship among peoples of varied backgrounds.

It was a beautiful reminder that Jesus came for all people, not a select few. I stopped right then and there to pray. I thanked God for the innocent faith of my sweet boy; that even at his young age, he already believed that Jesus is worth lining up for. I prayed that he would grow up in a world like the one that he had created in his playset — a society that recognizes its need for Christ and where everyone realizes they not only can approach Jesus but are invited. I asked God to help us to fulfill this holy purpose of drawing close to Christ and living in peace and love with all our brothers and sisters, and to be as welcoming as my son in introducing others to Jesus.

Taking a cue from my little boy, I invite us to look at things with Christ-centred hearts. Using something as simple as a decorative Christmas toy, my son had unknowingly ministered to me with his unspoken, but faith-filled, message. Drawing upon this type of childlike faith, perhaps add to your décor this season with something that visually shines light on the gospel message. May your Christmas decorations and nativity scenes speak to you and others in different, meaningful ways, and may it remind you of Christ's all-encompassing, unconditional love for all the Little People!

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for the innocent faith of children. May they always believe that Jesus is worth gathering around and that they can approach Jesus just as they are. May we take the children's lead in being humble and welcoming in our divinely given task of bringing all kinds of people to Christ. Amen.

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