Hammer on Anvil '

What Child is this 
Who, laid to rest on Mary's lap, is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing,
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

This will be short and sweet. This is Christmas Eve, and I just want to encourage readers to think about the Christ Child as they gather to celebrate His birth.

Jesus, the Lord of heaven and earth, left His glory in heaven to come to earth as a newborn baby. He was born in a crude manger, surrounded by smelly animals. From His very birth, He exemplified humility.

And He asks us to do the same. Jesus tells us in Matthew 18:3 that unless we become as little children, we will never enter the kingdom of heaven. What about children does Jesus want us to emulate?

Children are innocent. Children have implicit trust that their needs will be met. Children are simple. Children are honest. Children are non-assuming. They are genuine and don't put on airs.

This Christmas, let's endeavor to be innocent and simple and honest. Let's have implicit trust that our heavenly Father will meet our every need -- because He promises to over and over again in His Word. Let's not pretend we have it all together when we know we're a mess.

Ann Voskamp wisely states in her Advent devotional The Greatest Gift, "You aren't equipped for life until you realize you aren't equipped for life. You aren't equipped for life until you're in need of grace."

Grace is what we celebrate at Christmas. Grace that came to earth as a newborn baby, walked among sinful men, and ultimately gave His life for our redemption.

Oh come, let us adore Him.