The Gift of a Baby

And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Luke 2:7

Christmas is a time I think about babies as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Each year I’m moved by a sermon, song, friend, or family member. This year I’m recalling meaningful songs about baby Jesus.

The song Away in a Manger always reminds me of my daughter at age four. Her version of the Christmas story started with, “There was no playpen for baby Jesus at the room. Baby Jesus had to sleep in a manger.” Her retelling made me smile.

At one Christmas Eve service the song Mary Did You Know moved me to tears. The song asks Mary if she knew the feats her baby would perform during his life. “When you kiss your little baby You kiss the face of God,” was the most significant lyric that moved me.

This year Some Children See Him was the powerful song that evoked memories and feelings for me. With the images of babies on the screen and Pastor Greg singing, I saw my granddaughter. I was so moved, I got up to look at her baby picture but it had been replaced with Christmas decor. I went right back to the screen, but I felt such a connection to her that night. This week I have looked at baby pictures of my children and grandchildren. Awe, wonder, joy, and responsibility run through a mother’s veins. Mary was looking at the face of God. Holding a baby inspires that emotion in me.

Lord, we are grateful that you sent your Son to us as a baby. We are privileged and inspired to have his life from the manger to the cross to show us your love and expectations for our lives.

This month’s devotion was written by Linda Splichal. Linda Splichal is a member of the Women’s Ministry team, a hospitality team, a funeral team, and runs visuals. She has been a member of Sheridan since 1968. Linda is a retired teacher, but works high school and middle school field trips for the Lower Platte South and is on the UNL Event Staff. During warm weather, she may be found on a golf course. Linda is blessed to have both parents and her daughter and family living near. Her son and family live in Arizona.