For Unto Us

Adapted from a devotion published in 1997.

I was up late one night this past week admiring our Christmas tree. No doubt, it is the best one we've had since we've been married. An artificial Douglas Fir, the tree is adorned with wonderful decorations. There is the angel on top, lightly glowing; there are a number of glitter-speckled balls; an iridescent garland wrapping around the tree; and a number of specialty ornaments of both the unique and cute variety. With Christmas music playing softly in the background, I watched the colorful lights light up the room, some flashing slowly, others staying brightly lit. It was a peaceful moment, and as late as it was, it wasn't long before I allowed my imagination out to play.

I was very close to the tree, looking deep inside its branches, past the garland, past the ceramic angels, past the glittery balls and lights. Suddenly I was passing through a galaxy of lights and decorations, speeding ever faster toward the heart of the tree. All came to a stop, where before me was a simple, nondescript ornament hanging in space. It wasn't flashy or shiny, cute or iridescent. It lay there silently, almost hidden from sight. But once past all the distractions, the worries, and the substitutes, I could see it. A lowly manger, with a Child and his earthly parents. Yes, in that moment, the true meaning of Christmas filled my senses.

What about you? Has Christmas become too routine, filled only with the annual rush and the shiny, flashy façade? I pray that you will find a quiet moment to look down, deep into the heart of Christmas, and rediscover the true meaning and hope of this special time, meant for you and all the world. For unto us, a Child is born, and a Son is given.


The heart of Christmas is the hope and promise of one man, one Lord, and one Savior, Jesus Christ.

"The angel reassured them, 'Don't be afraid!' he said. 'I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! The Savior -- yes, the Messiah, the Lord -- has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the city of David! And this is how you will recognize him: You will find a baby lying in a manger, wrapped snugly in strips of cloth!' Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others -- the armies of heaven -- praising God: 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors'" (Luke 2:10-14, NLT)

May you each have a blessed Christmas!

Originally published 24 December, 1997. Encounters! Ministry, Copyright © James A. Chase