“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors.”
(2 Corinthians 5:17-20a NIV)
My friend Gary ran a fishing charter business, on Atlin Lake in British Columbia, Canada, for many years. During this time, he was fortunate enough to reel in a huge catch of his own. A catch which he not only preserved through his taxidermy skills, but also through joyously celebrating the retelling of his story with his clients and friends.
Likewise, the shepherds, to whom the angels had revealed themselves, on the very first Christmas night, after hurrying off and finding Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger, “…spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” (Luke 2:17-18 NIV)
The angels’ announcement to the shepherds was a life changing event. A celebration which I am sure, they not only remembered forever, but one which they repeatedly retold to any and all who would listen.
The sighting of the star which guided the Magi from the east, right to the place where Jesus was to be found in Bethlehem was also a life changing event. They travelled a great distance to follow and find the Christ child and offer him precious gifts, fit for a king. They also spoke about this great news to King Herod for it was something to celebrate. Herod however was incensed by the news and plotted evil after hearing it. The Magi being warned in a dream to not go back and say anymore to Herod, returned to their country by another route. Though the Scriptures do not give us further insight into the Magi’s lives, within myself, I have no doubt that this life changing event was something they too keep celebrating by retelling their marvelous story to others.
As we approach Christmas this year, how will our celebrations reflect the story of the King of Kings, and how shall our lives continue to celebrate what He has done for us, who believe and have accepted Him as Lord and Saviour? Hopefully, through the joyous telling to others, as the Holy Spirit provides opportunity, of all that Christ has done for us. He has forgiven our sins, reconciled us to God, made us new creations and given us the great privilege of being his ambassadors, fishers of men, who offer the message of reconciliation to all mankind.
Prayer: Father God, may our lives always continue to celebrate the reconciling message of Christ with others, as the Holy Spirit provides opportunity. In Christ’s name. Amen.
Lynne Phipps
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada