A Gentle Nudge

 


A Gentle Nudge



“Fear not,” the angel announced to the shepherds, “for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2: 10-11)


This amazing birth announcement did not order the shepherds to go to Bethlehem. It simply told them where the miraculous gift baby was and how they would know that they had found him. In its very form and substance, it foretold the good news that Jesus was later to teach -- a world of joy exists all around us; a world of peace exists very close to each of us; a world of love exists among us, if we can only open ourselves to it.


The Christmas story is easy to understand. It is kind and gentle. It does not force us to do anything. In the manner of Jesus himself, it simply invites us to follow. Christmas is a gift that gives us a gentle nudge in the direction of the kingdom of Heaven.


Wayne and LaVonne Danielson

Christmas 2003