In a world of hatred and selfishness, Jesus demonstrates the way of love, loving even His enemies. Love is far more than a sentimental feeling. It is far more than the cooing we make when we meet a new baby. Love is the settled response of a heart that is secure in God’s love. We are loved; God has lavished His love upon us. (1 John 3:1) He so loved the world that He gave His only Son. (John 3:16) The giving of gifts at Christmas time is evidence of love, but most of all, it is a reminder that God gave us the gift of His Son, and, through Him, the gift of eternal life.
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As we come to the end of Advent and are about to celebrate Christmas Day, this theme reminds us to rest in the love of God manifested in a baby born to be with us and to save us: Immanuel, Jesus our salvation.