More Christmases than not, Kathy and I have been on the road. For the early part of our family life, we lived away from our parents. Now we live away from our sons and grandchildren. Because of other responsibilities we frequently ended up driving on Christmas Eve, sometimes all night.
We'll be home this Christmas, but one of our sons is traveling. Some other relatives are traveling here to be with us. Friends of mine are already on the road; more soon will be. Airports and bus stations are full. the traffic can be intense. I'm reminded that right before the first Christmas Jesus' family was on the road. Countless Christmas programs--bathrobes and all--show the Holy Family making the journey. We feel sorry for Mary. If we guys think about it, we can feel the knot of responsibility in Joseph's stomach as he neared the City of David, wondering if they would make it on time. What were their thoughts as the amazing words from heaven that had come to them mingled with the immediate and urgent? There were three on that first Christmas journey, Mary, Joseph, and, as we say using the beautiful, familiar words, the Babe. Christ's journey began well before Nazareth from whence Mary and Joseph embarked.
In broad, cosmic terms John said, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." Paul adds, "[H]e gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being" (Philippians 2:7, NLT). Isaiah had predicted, "Unto us a Son is given" (Isaiah 9:6). God the Son, Who became the God-man Jesus Christ, existed for eternity. He came to earth. It was a journey.
As you pile into the family car, wait for your flight or bus, or look at your watch wondering when your loved one will arrive, be reminded of the journey that began it all, and know that "[T]he Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). That would be me and you. It's STTA.
Merry Christmas.Explore more about why the Son of God came to earth, here.
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