When Heaven Comes to Earth

At this time of year, we’re full of anticipation, hope for tomorrow, brought about by the glimmers of kindness we see everywhere. For some we invite Christmas in with falling snow and fireplaces aglow. For others, just writing out a few Christmas cards for people we love, or making travel plans, brightens our thoughts, reminding us that special days are just ahead. Yet, a few will be full of questions about why hope has all but disappeared. In Psalm 8, David questioned the Creator. He looked at the twinkling stars and the amazing world around him and he couldn’t quite understand why God would even bother with human beings. He asked his question out loud, “What is man that you care about him?” 

The answer is found in the hearts of every soul who peeks into the manger. God chose the most loving way that could ever be, to bring heaven to earth. He delivered an infant into the care of human beings. This infant was not like anyone before or since. This infant would live a life without greed or avarice, without sin, or shame. This infant would shine a light that would get brighter with the years, become bigger than the star the wisemen followed into Bethlehem. This light would make the world glow, and everyone would see it. 

The child of Christmas is the answer for many, a challenge to some, and a blind spot for others. He cannot be seen by simply searching, although He will come to those who earnestly seek Him. He cannot be known by study, although He’ll open the minds of those who sincerely want to know more about Him. His light is blinding for those who simply want to turn away and walk in paths of darkness, unwilling or unable to see the Truth that has come from heaven to earth. 

The fact is that heaven comes to earth every time your heart reaches out to Him. It opens the door with every moment you spend with Him in prayer, or when you generously give to those around you. Heaven comes to earth today just as it did back when angels appeared to lonely shepherds. It comes to those who look up with anticipation, trusting that God is there and that He does indeed care about every human being. All He really wants is for every human being to care just as much about Him. He sent His own baby boy so that our hearts would follow Him forever.

May your home be filled with a little bit of heaven this holiday season.