In two days we begin a 12-day celebration that includes giving gifts. We give gifts on Christmas in remembrance of our being given the greatest of gifts. That gift is so great that any gifts given before or since cannot come anywhere close to equaling it. That gift was the birth of a baby, but not just any baby. God gave us the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ.

The promise of giving such a precious gift was spoken by men of God through the centuries prior to His arrival. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies concerning who, what, when, where and how that child would come into the world. Then, a little over 2,100 years ago He was born.

Such a great birth was announced by an angel: “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.'” (Luke 2:10-11)

Can you think of getting anything better than getting a savior who is God’s own Son? Our sinful disobedience has placed us in a state of war with God. We cannot change that status, but God has! As the angel chorus sang after the announcement of His birth: “‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.'” (Luke 2:14)

As that child, Jesus, grew and became a man He accomplished the saving work that reconciles us to God and gives us God’s peace. As the angels sang, “on earth peace to men,” we know that’s Jesus’ saving work for all people. Therefore, as so many celebrate Christmas exchanging gifts, may they all come to know and appreciate the greatest gift of the holiday.

To learn more about Christmas, Jesus, and His saving work, please visit or contact St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fredonia (672-6731), Immanuel Lutheran Church, Gowanda (532-4342), or Trinity Lutheran Church, Silver Creek (934-2002).