Anticipation and the hustle and bustle season is upon us, again –

Anticipation – to meander through less traveled routes from the heavy shopping traffic to get home.

Anticipation – to drive down the streets to view the beautifully decorated homes hoping to see, at least, one Nativity scene.

Anticipation – to be greeted with a smile and hear “Merry Christmas”, instead of “Happy Holidays” or simply “Thank You”.

Anticipation – of a white Christmas, not just dreaming.

Anticipation – of family and friends gathered together to gift each other, break bread and give thanks.

Anticipation – “do you believe, Santa Baby” will come down the chimney to deliver the goods?  A sable, a yacht, a duplex, checks and don’t forget the ring.  Oh, the anticipation for things that eventually lose their luster to fill the heart.

This year while filling the stockings, with care fill your hearts –

Selah – Pause and think, “What Child is This?”

…that the heavenly hosts proclaimed to lowly shepherds,”Glory, to the new-born King.”

…that wise kings followed the star and sought out to travel miles to worship and gaze upon His face, the King of kings.

…that the son of Mary, Immanuel (God with us), he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, would choose to be born in a lowly and humbled stable.

…that, Jesus-Immanuel, who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, divine and of greater power than any other ruler, would choose to come and dwell among His creation to save and draw us to himself.

What child is this?

This, this is Christ the King, Son of Mary – God in the flesh.

Merry Christmas.