NAUGHTY OR NICE

 

Chris

Chris's mother told us that he was a perfect child.  My mother told us that I was a perfect child.  We couldn't understand why we had imperfect children.  By having these children our eyes were opened to our own failings.

I think my sister was perfect.  The only time she ever got into trouble was when she wouldn't go to bed on time.  Our dad clapped his hands at her and she obediently ran up the stairs to bed. I can remember only one time I got into trouble.  I had invited a friend over to play and we were too noisy while my dad was trying to sleep.  (He worked the night shift and had to sleep during the day.) As I look back on it I believe I got into trouble for childish irresponsibility.  I hadn't meant to disobey. But then as I got older I realized it was my pride and self righteousness of what I was guilty. My brothers can probably remember other sins I committed.  I can remember the defects of my brothers!

Even though we determine to be nice--  all are guilty of some naughtiness. This is exactly why Jesus came.  We come face to face with our sin, our flaws, our need, and face to face with our Savior. Jesus was the God/man who lived a perfect life and died for our sins and rose from the dead so that we might be with Him forever in His glorious kingdom. 

As we sing the old and new Christmas carols this Christmas may we recognize the promises from centuries earlier being fulfilled in a tiny baby. 

Galatians 1: 3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.