Christmas Eve.  A night that often focuses on quiet reflection and meditation.  We talk about the tiny baby born in Bethlehem.  We focus on his innocence.  We sing songs like "Away In A Manger", and, of course, "Silent Night".  But was it a silent night?  I don't think so.  Jesus was born in a stable.  Animals.  Donkeys, Cows, Sheep.  He was laid in a manger.  Hay.  Feed.  Manure.   All is calm?  I hardly think so.  A great choir of the heavenly host came to the shepherds in the fields, proclaiming the good news of the Savior's birth.  I can't imagine what kind of "silent" night that must have been!  The truth is, Christ's entry into this world was not gentle, it was not calm, it was not silent.  It was rude, difficult, dirty, and loud, just like the world He came to redeem.  It was NOT what the world expected for the arrival of the King of Kings, but it was an excellent prelude to the way they would treat Him, the way He would live, and the way He would die.

Do take time this Christmas season for meditation.  Do take time for quiet.  Ponder the mystery of the arrival of God's Son who came to take away the sins of the world.  Wonder at the reality of Emmanuel, God With Us.  But remember why He came.  Remember how He came.  He truly was the Man of Sorrows (or as Rich Mullins so elegantly said it, the "Man of No Reputation"), even from His birth.

I'm going "off grid" for a couple of days to travel for time with my family.  It is my prayer that each of you will be able to do the same.  Treasure the time you have with friends and family, celebrate the arrival and sacrifice of our Savior, and have a blessed Christmas, everyone!

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