On this holy day, may we all celebrate the Incarnation of our Lord with humility, reverence, joy, peace, and above all, love.
As we open gifts, let us remember that the greatest Gift that has ever been given is Jesus Christ, the Messiah, our Lord and Savior. He came that we might have life and have it abundantly. He gives us not only abundant life in this earthly existence, but eternal life in a heavenly existence.
Jesus came to become the ultimate, once-for-all, everlasting Sacrifice. He died on the cross to atone for our sins. He died once and was resurrected to eternal life to save us from eternal damnation.
Although He has always been and will always be divine, He emptied Himself of His omniscience, omnipresence, dominion, and power to come to earth as a helpless baby who grew into a miracle-working adult who gave Himself willingly to death on the cross for our sake.
Today, we may exchange presents, eat lots of food, enjoy visits with relatives, participate in fun activities and hobbies with family and friends. Certainly, this is a day to be merry, to have fun.
But in the midst of the fun, food, and fellowship, let us remember why we are celebrating. We are thanking God for sending His Son to die for us. We are worshipping our Lord and Savior who gave us salvation. We are remembering that we are totally dependent on the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. We are looking ahead to the return of Jesus coming with the clouds for us to be with Him forever and forever.
GOD, who makest us glad with the yearly remembrance of the birth of thine only Son Jesus Christ; Grant that as we joyfully receive him for our Redeemer, so we may with sure confidence behold him when he shall come to be our Judge, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. ~ 1928 Book of Common Prayer