By now, many of us have planned for Christmas or shopped for Christmas. But what do we see when we watch Christmas?

It’s part 3 of the Watching Christmas series. I’ve seen and pondered a lot. I’ve prayed and looked for more.

I’ve watched the shepherds and angels.

I’ve tracked the steps of the three wise men.

Now my eyes and heart rest on the One who holds all creation together. I’m looking at baby Jesus.

The King of Glory could have made His earthly entrance in the grandest of places. The ornate architecture of a palace would have been fitting. He chose the rustic setting of a stable instead. But just as surprising as where He arrived is how He arrived.

God came in the form of an infant — the most vulnerable among us.

All of our weakness and frailty set the stage for the Almighty’s earthly arrival. Where do you feel the most vulnerable: In a relationship, your finances, your health or your _____________?

Baby Jesus’ tiny fingers would grow to extend the Messiah’s mission of healing the sick, feeding the hungry and raising the dead.

The cry from his newborn lungs would fade into the cry of “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:26-34)

When we are at our weakest or feel like we’re at risk, all of who He is meets us where we are, because…

God came as the One who faces life with us.

I see Him with Mary and Joseph as they travel to Bethlehem. They thought they were going for a census, He knew it was His birthplace.

Immanuel, one of the names for Christ means “God with us.” (Matthew 1:23) Even when I feel distant from Him or undeserving, He is with me. He is with you too. He pursues us in the most personal and profound ways.

Regardless of the situation we’re in.

When we’re faced with difficult choices.

When the pounding of heartache persists, because…

God came as the fulfillment of His promise, Christ alone can save us.

And He did. Consistent with every Old Testament prophecy, Love laid in a manger. As He grew in favor with God and man, He was tempted with every manner of sin. Yet, He remained sinless. (Hebrews 4:15)

When the Suffering Savior died on the Cross, redemption was realized for you and me. As the Resurrected Lord, He empowers us to live the life He intends. He gives us the greatest gift of all — being forgiven and free.

The God who made us is the same God who came to save us. What strikes you the most about the Christmas story?

Watching Christmas causes me to believe in the Christ.

I see my need for Him as Savior.

I worship Him as my Lord.

I want to know Him more and for others to know Him too.

So as I wrap gifts, prepare dishes and spend time with family and friends, I’ll also take in the view.

For considering the Christmas story, there’s a lot for us to see. But out of everything that catches our eye, I pray we behold the wonder of Christ’s love. Knowing Him always gives us reason for hope in the heart and joy to the soul.

“And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21 NLT