Christian Reflection and Prayer

By Rev. Wayne Palmer

Scriptures:

Read Romans 16:25-27.

...the mystery that was kept secret
for long ages has now been disclosed
(Romans 16:25b-26a)

Reflection:

Over our lifetime Christmas is a series
of ever-changing mysteries. Our childhood
mystery "What's inside the wrapping
paper?" becomes "Where did they hide the
presents?" becomes "Is this Christmas the
right time to give her an engagement ring?"
becomes "How will we be able to afford
presents for the kids?" becomes "What can
I buy someone who already has everything?"

Is there any Christmas mystery left for you?
Is there anything about the season that
makes you smile in wonder? Does anything
still thrill you and a send a shiver down your
spine?

There is a mystery-a mystery greater and
more wonderful than all the others combined.
And that mystery isn't wrapped in colorful
paper; it's wrapped in swaddling clothes. It
isn't laid under the tree; it's laid to sleep in a
manger. It's the Baby born in Bethlehem.

What's so mysterious about that? It's the
fact that this Baby is the almighty Son of
God, stooping down to become one of His
creatures: a mere human. Why would He
want to expose Himself to all the hurt and
suffering in our crazy world? Why would God
be willing to become our substitute and earn
our way to heaven by His perfect life, and to
 suffer and die in our place on the cross?

That is the greatest mystery, a mystery God
has revealed to the world. It sends a shiver
 down your spine to ponder what kind of love
moved Him to do all of this for you.

PRAYER:

Son of God, Your willingness to be born of a
virgin, to share our life and to be our Substitute
is an incredible mystery to me. Fill me with
wonder, joy and gratitude for Your amazing
grace and love. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)