Shepherds beside themselves with joy to witness birth of Jesus
JOE MILLER JR.

Luke 3:7-18

Christmas is celebrated all over the world by Christians of all denominations. The Greek Orthodox actually celebrate Epiphany, the anniversary of the visit by the Magi (Wisemen) rather than the event we know as the Nativity, but they still celebrate the birth of Jesus.

I suspect that the American celebration is the most lavish compared to other countries. Our own celebrations vary quite a bit depending on the financial condition of individual families. For many of us, we have become quite spoiled at Christmas time. We have come to expect a big meal, visits by family members, presents under the tree, and decorations inside and outside of the house.

When I was a child, I enjoyed going over to my grandmother's and grandfather's house because Santa always left us presents there also. Santa is a really good person to visit all of the houses on Christmas Eve and to leave tons of presents for all the good little girls and boys.

Except all of the good little girls and boys do not get a bunch of presents under the tree, if they even have a tree, if they even have a place to live, if they even have enough to eat. Such is the disparity of the world in which we live.

But this reflection is not about “them.” This reflection is about us- –those of us who are fortunate to celebrate the birth of Jesus in grand style.

Read and listen what John the Baptist has to say to those who come to him seeking something beyond themselves.

Lest they are foolish enough to think that they deserve the automatic blessings of God, he reminds them that God can raise their replacements from the stones that litter that part of the world. God does not need them; they need God.

Birthright does not bring salvation, but actions are required that bear fruit. How one treats others is the central part of getting ready for Jesus. We love to sing songs like God Bless America, and view our world from American eyes that see our blessings as something we deserve or at least take for

granted. That is not what the Bible says. It is clear that we could be replaced by a bunch of stones if God so decides.

America is truly blessed by God, but that blessing is an undeserved gift. Remember on Christmas morning to thank God for all of the many blessings that we have.

Also, remember the greatest Christmas gift that was ever given to us some 2000 years ago; when God sent his only son to be born to a couple of very ordinary, working class folks who could not even find a decent place for him to be born in.

There were no fancy decorations or presents under a tree, and not even a proper crib or baby clothes… just a bunch of lowly shepherds who were beside themselves with joy to be able to witness the baby who came to save the world.

I hope and pray that you have a very blessed and Merry Christmas! Email me at newtonumc@valornet.com with your thoughts.

Joe Miller Jr. is pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Newton