The reality of Christmas

Levi Daniel, born Dec. 20, 2011

When we brought Levi home from the hospital this week, Caleb nonchalantly walked by his tiny baby brother and said, "You know, I knew I liked him as soon as I saw him."

Tim and I laughed, and then Tim said, "You know buddy, we knew we liked you as soon as we saw you, too."

I don't think parents ever forget that moment -- or at least the elation -- of that first sight of their newborn child. There, in an instant, is that rush of unconditional love. That promise of a long-awaited child is now there before you in the flesh. At that moment, you know that you would do anything for that child.

As you might expect, having a Christmas baby has caused me to reflect a bit more on the Christmas story and especially the weight behind the reality of the familiar words, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son..."  God voluntarily sent his son into a fallen world, even with full knowledge of the pain and heartache to come.

As someone who grew up hearing the Christmas story every year, it's easy to become a bit complacent -- to sing the carols, admire the lights, read the story, and hear the messages without really understanding, without truly comprehending the sacrifice and love of a Father who would give his son for us.

But as a mom, bursting with love for a tiny newborn just placed in her arms, I am a bit more aware this year of how "great the father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure." And I'm thankful for the promise of that love, and what it means for the children placed in my care.