Woody Slade is pastor of the Flora First Christian Church. It is almost impossible for me to imagine the excitement that went through the hearts of Mary, Joseph and so many others on that day long ago.

But the excitement began long before the birth of Jesus. Mary, a fair maiden, was visited by an angel and told that she was going to be the mother of God’s child. The angel told her that this child would be the Messiah, the savior of the world. Sure, she was excited but in those days it was not a good thing for a woman to be pregnant and not have a husband. She talked it over with her family, I am sure, and as this monumental event sunk in, she must have felt a peace like she had never felt before.

Joseph, whom she was engaged to, was so supportive. He did not understand it all either, not even after his visit with an angel who tried to calm him and explain all the details to him. Bottom line was that this carpenter and his soon to be wife, Mary, were to be the earthly parents of the Savior of the World. What great excitement. What tremendous anxiety as to what was going to happen next.

We all know the story so well. Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem to be enrolled in the census. While they were there, Mary gave birth to a son and called him Jesus. The gospel of Luke tells us, “While they were there, the time came for the babe to be born and Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no place for them in the inn. And there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flocks. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and said, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today, in the town of Bethlehem a Savior has been born, who is Christ the Lord.’ The shepherds were joined by a company of God’s angels who said, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth’.” These shepherds ran quickly and found the baby and began to spread the word about the Messiah’s birth.

As we approach Christmas, let us not be distracted by the things that could keep us from that manger. Let us not be so busy that we forget to worship this child and to prepare in our hearts for His birth. We will become tired with all the hustle and bustle, all the running around, so we may have to plan some “quiet time” to read the story of His birth once again and to ponder in our hearts what it means. May the joy of the children fill our hearts as they open gifts and pour out the goodies from their stockings. At the same time, let all be generous when we are given the opportunity to share and make a difference in someone’s life who otherwise might not be able to celebrate this Christmas season. Let us not forget our service men and women, who have placed their lives in harm’s way, for the freedoms we enjoy. Certainly, our prayers are with them and their families.

Above all, find the time to celebrate the birth of the Savior. He is a mighty counselor, prince of peace and He is God. This is God’s promise. Let us find room in our hearts to accept His great gift.