Christmas is a wonderful time of year to consider our relationship with each other and with the Lord Jesus. In the movie, Talladega Nights, Will Farrell, playing Ricky Bobby, a Nascar Driver, says grace at a meal with the family. However, he addresses his prayer to the “Little baby Jesus” because he says that he likes the 6 lb 8 oz version of Jesus best.
It seems that many in our world like the Christmas Jesus. A babe, asleep in a manger, angels singing overhead, Wisemen coming with all sorts of gifts. Jesus in a manger is tame, soft and cuddly. I guess that is the way some would prefer him. As a babe there are no demands, no challenge to our lives.
However, a relationship with Jesus is much more than a manger and adoring Shepherds. It is a relationship that challenges our lives on every level: Love over hate, peace over anxiety, grace over legalism, hope over despair, justice over injustice. self-giving over selfishness. Jesus came and demonstrated what a relationship with God really looked like, love, mercy, self-surrender and so much more.
This Christmas Season, why not strive to relate to Jesus the Lord. In doing so, learn to love God and others as Jesus did.
