Some of these eyewitnesses were also His disciples who spent three years following Him. Those like John, who wrote: “What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the Word of Life—and the life was manifested, and we have seen and testify and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested to us.” (1 John 1:1-2) Many of our Christmas memories and nostalgia surrounding this season are triggered by our senses. Perhaps when you hear a familiar Christmas carol on the radio, or see the lights in your neighborhood, you think of Christmas. For others, it might be the smell of a Douglas fir or the taste of a gingerbread cookie, or the feel of a familiar ornament you hang on the tree. But to those who lived at the time of Christ, it wasn’t these things that brought to mind the wonder of Christmas. It was hearing the cries of a newborn baby, the contented sighs of His mother, and the rustling sounds of animals as the Child is placed in a manger. And to those who witnessed His death and resurrection, it was the sounds of the nails piercing His hands and feet and the sight of the empty tomb that signified victory over death, sin, and shame, and the promise of eternal life to all those who trust in Christ by grace through faith. • What are some sights, sounds, and smells that remind you of Christmas? • What are some traditions that you have (or that you can establish) to center your focus and worship upon Christ? Will Davis Stone Oak Campus Pastor 26
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