The Crib and the Crown
by Kathy Brown on December 8th, 2009 | 0 comments
Sentimentality at this time of year seems to overtake America. Those, who at no other time of the year give Christianity a glance, seem to clamor for a spot at the manger’s edge. They want to sniff the hay, snatch the Wise Men’s gifts and oooh and aaah at the cute little bundle that gurgles somewhere in their midst.
This is almost reason for those of us who are followers of Christ to declare, “Bah humbug!” It seems as though there has been an invasion of sacred territory. Then, again, the almost universal salute to the December holiday is evidence that the birth of this Jewish child is an historical fact, and it just can’t be ignored. The tinsel, lit trees, yard decorations, carols and presents rivet attention either toward Santa, who comes down the chimney, or that One who claims to slide into the sin-sick soul. Old Saint Nick is acknowledged by everyone as fictional. The infant nestled in Mary’s arms gets mixed reviews.
Most everyone agrees, as our dating system implies, that someone unique was born over two thousand years ago. For many non-Christians, he was a brilliant teacher or a good man. This, of course, is nonsense. Anyone who claims to be God, insists he came to save humanity, and proclaims he is the “Truth” is either nutty, a liar or . . . truly the Messiah.
The essence of the Scriptural Jesus is hardly innocuous. Those gathered around to examine His identity, that first Christmas and now, eventually have to decide who He is. Packing Him up and putting Him away on New Year’s Day doesn’t really work. Each of us is either attracted to, or repulsed by, the Labor of Love delivered into this world. He changed everything forever, not just seasonally.
Every effort is made to evade the Gift given to mankind: Emmanuel, God with us. The annual holiday hubbub, and even the focus on the nativity scene itself, may distract us from the fact that the crib is empty and the baby grew up. He no longer coos and crawls. He has been crowned Lord of Lords and has issued the proclamation that He rules the Kingdom that has no end. He seems to insist that even the skeptic notice this. So, for His sake, and in His Spirit: Merry Christmas one and all.
From the Mouth of Jesus:
“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth, I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34
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