Between the Manger and the Cross

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 (NIV)

With Christmas behind us, and the New Year only days away, it’s easy to put away the baby in the manger along with all of the other Christmas decorations. During the holidays, we might find ourselves trying to put the focus on the reason for the season; but after the last present is unwrapped, and the last needle falls from the tree–what remains?

Just as we try to keep Christ in Christmas, we should also keep Him in our hearts every day. We need to remember exactly why that baby in the manger was born (which, by the way, was to die). Not only do we need to understand that reason, we need to concentrate on the life that He lived between the manger and the cross.

Everything that Jesus did from cradle to grave was to reconcile the creation to the creator–the Father to His children.

In Biblical times it was the duty of the son to carry on the father’s work. We are to go about our Father’s work as well. His work is to make disciples of all nations. He is not willing that any should perish.

As we carry on the family business, we will be following in the footsteps of Christ; spreading the Gospel to all with whom we come in contact. News this great was meant to be shared!

Lord, help me to always remember that nothing I do is more important than telling others about the saving grace of your son Jesus Christ.

© 2011 Kimberly Mattio Halfen