And the stockings were hung...

Christmas is the happiest time of year. You see I am in charge of the stockings, and stockings are a very big deal in my house. I spend a good six months figuring out what to put in each one. I try to make each present small and wonderful.

And our family continues to grow. This year we gained a new daughter (in-law), and next year a grand son and new son (in-law). Our little clan that started out so long ago as just two is a healthy dozen. So the gift selection is a constant challenge.

But there is one gift I can only tell you about.

None of this would have happened unless the greatest gift of all had come a long time ago. Isaiah writes:

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Michael Card's album The Promise focuses on the propohecy and fulfillment that occurred in Bethlehem--the City of David--the House of Bread. Jesus did not come in the traditional sense of a warrior-king, but He still intended to conquer our hearts. That's the gift and wonder of Christmas that everyone from a infant child to great great grand parent can come to a saving knowledge and eternal life with God.

Jesus is the present, but like all presents you need to open it. It isn't complicated. All you need do is ask Jesus to come and live inside of you and confess your sins and ask for his forgiveness. Salvation and eternal life is for everyone.