December 24, 2023 - INSCRIPTIONS FROM THE HEART

By Pastor Immanuel Garcera

IFH: December 24, 2023

Did you know that the shepherds were the first witnesses at the scene of Jesus’ birth? The wise men didn’t get to baby Jesus until He was about 2 years old and the saviour was no longer located in the manger but at their family home (Matt. 2:11). And of course, there was no little drummer boy to bother Jesus while He was trying to sleep.

The shepherds were first at the scene, yet in our nativity scenes (like the one on the church stage), they often share their glory with the wise men who weren’t even there at the same time! In reality, we have 1 nativity scene (Luke 2), and 1 scene with the wise men during their visit to Jesus, approximately 2 years after His birth (Matt. 2). With every new generation of young people I teach during the holidays, they are often shocked to hear this. I mean, if this is your first time hearing and reading this, you might be shocked as well!

My question for us today is simply this; do we know Jesus of the Bible personally and intimately? Not simply the Jesus we have been told about. Because if we say we truly know Jesus, shouldn’t we know the facts about his birth? Just something to think about…

12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.” (Luke 2:12-4)

The good news is, during this time of year we celebrate God who has peace with those He favours. How can we be favoured you ask? Welcome His Son into your life! Tell everyone all around about Him, once you witness His glory -- much like the shepherds did that very first Christmas day.

My hope and prayer is that we will come to know the Jesus of the Bible personally and intimately, more and more, every day.

To God be the glory!