But as time moves on, as we grow and mature, especially as we mature in our faith we can realize that the gifts – the things – of Christmas don’t have the appeal they once did. What becomes important is the time we spend together with the ones we love.
Although the focus of Advent and Christmas is often the baby in the manger, we must see that Jesus was part of a family. As Jesus was teaching in his hometown the people were amazed and in their amazement they wondered about this man they had known so many years. What questions did they ask? What family members are mentioned specifically?
In the amazement of the crowd, the questions they ask of each other, we see some details about the private life of Jesus. They mention his father, Joseph, someone we already know. They also talk about Mary, his mother. But now they talk about siblings to Jesus.
Listed by name are four brothers; James, Joseph, Simon and Judas. Although they are not named, sisters are mentioned and the words “all his sisters” seems to hint at three or more. Jesus was not alone in his life. He had brothers and sisters as he grew up.
Why is this important? I believe it is important for us to remember that our Lord and Savior was no stranger to the relationships we have in life. He had friends. He had parents. He had siblings. Jesus is completely able to understand whatever it is we go through in our lives because he experienced it too.
Christmas can be a celebration not just of gifts given and not just the greatest gift of Jesus, but also a celebration of time together with family. Jesus was the first child of a family, and that family has now grown to include each of us.
DAILY CHALLENGE: Who needs to be included in your Christmas?
