His Birthday

Matthew 2:11 – And when [the wise men] were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. (KJV)

Recently I said to two children, aged five and six, "You seem to know what Halloween is all about; can you tell me what Christmas is about?" I got the expected reply that seems to be the norm for too many of our children these days: "Santa Claus gives us presents."

I went on to explain that, on December 25th, we celebrate the birthday of someone very special. I asked, "Can you tell me who?" They could not or would not tell me the answer, but I know they had heard it before. I told them that we give gifts to each other at Christmas as a way of celebrating the birth of baby Jesus. This incident saddened me deeply because I care about those two children.

Children's minds are so receptive. Oh, what an opportunity parents and grandparents miss when they neglect this sacred responsibility! We must depend on our Lord to help us to guide our children to grow up into loving and caring adults. As parents, grandparents, and even friends, we must use every opportunity to let these little ones know about Jesus. Sometimes we have to make these opportunities happen.

Psalm 127:3 – Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord; and the fruit of the womb is his reward. (KJV)

Luke 18:16 – But Jesus called them unto him, and said, "Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." (KJV)

Jesus came to us as a little child, and children of all ages are welcome in His kingdom. If we neglect to teach our little ones about Jesus, we cheat them of their inheritance.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Christmas celebrations are very near. Help us to reflect lovingly, and with great thanksgiving, the gift of your Son. As we exchange gifts with each other, may we remember Jesus' birthday as an opportunity to share this love with our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We pray that, in this world, where we too often forget the true meaning of Christmas, there may be a new awakening in our hearts and souls. Help us not to forget the children. Amen.

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