by Victoria Heinecke

Go tell it on the mountain, for Jesus Christ is born!

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”
2 Corinthians 9:15 New International Version

Today is Boxing Day.

No, it doesn’t mean I get to box all day long, although I wouldn’t mind doing that.

Boxing Day originated in Great Britain, centuries ago, as a day to remember police, firefighters, and postal workers by giving Christmas Boxes of money, and treats, in gratitude for a job well done during the year.

Stained glass window at St Mary’s Cathedral, Colorado Springs

Yesterday, we celebrated God’s greatest gift…his one and only son, Jesus Christ. Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary to save us all from our sins.

The gift of Jesus’ birth was first proclaimed to shepherds, who were among the lowliest members of their society. Throughout Jesus’ life, and ministry, He had compassion for the least of His society. He forgave a prostitute, an adulteress, and dined with tax collectors.

He touched the lives of many in Israel, regardless of their status or their sinful state.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord..”
Romans 6:23 English Standard Version

Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world…her Savior, and our Savior. Shepherds heard the angels proclaim His birth. They went to see Him, and proclaimed the news to all who would listen. Zechariah and Anna rejoiced when Jesus was presented in the temple, knowing the long-awaited Messiah had arrived.

You don’t get the Christmas Box for a job well done. You can not earn a Christmas Box. You receive the gift because God loves you, and wants to be part of your life. Everyone can accept the gift, regardless of what you’ve done in your past.

God washes our sinful nature clean every time we repent, making us a new creation every time!

All we have to do is believe.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Colorado Springs, Colorado