“But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’” Luke 18:16-17
I know it’s not actually in the Bible, but I can picture the little drummer boy on the night Christ was born. There he was, peering around legs, sheep, and long robes. Maybe he heard the angels sing to the shepherds? Perhaps he was sleeping at the inn and awoke to the ruckus outside. Curious, he went to see what the fuss is all about. People were bringing gifts. Someone said this was the new king. The little drummer boy steps forward and offered his song, and the babe in the manger smiled at him. Barumpa, pum, pum.
Many people say Christmas is for children. We grown-ups are too harried, too conscious of the money, too cynical to get sucked into the whole thing. Christmas bonuses go to paying down bills, or buying gifts for the kids. It doesn’t matter. It’s all become too commercial anyway. Bah-humbug.
Yet Jesus invites us closer to the manger. “Don’t be anxious about material things,” He says. God loves and cares for us. Seek the kingdom first (Matthew 6:25-33). Draw near like a child with curiosity, openness, and faith. Embrace the season once again in its original joy.
Dearest Lord, invite us into your presence with the innocence of a child. Help us to adjust our faith-eyes to see you shining through the glitter and presents and parties. Then, in humility, let us bow down before your manager and once again declare you king over our lives. Amen.
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What part of Christmas do you need to see anew through the faith-eyes of a child?
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