Luke 2:11-12

In today's sermon, Brad spoke about living in the shadow of the manger. Now, when the
word “manger” comes up, perhaps some of you would think of Baby Jesus in the manger with
Mary and Joseph. It's certainly what comes to my mind. Brad then went on to talk about the manger as a symbol. Now, what we think of Christianity we often go straight to the Cross as a visual representation but what about the manger?

A manger is a trough that is used to store food for animals. This is what Jesus was cradled in, not the cots of the mothercare variety. What a sobering thought hey? The Son of God, not born in a 7*
private hospital but a stable, in a manger that probably smelt pretty bad.

It made me and pause and reflect on this Christmas season. Was it centred on remembering Christ and what He has done for me, or do I see it merely as a time to hit the shops and find the best bargain? Have I forgotten what Christmas is all about?

We were encouraged to reflect and respond in three ways. First, to live with a larger perspective.
Jesus wasn't born into privilege, and He doesn't work how we might want Him to work. It is important to look beyond ourselves and have a kingdom mindset.

Secondly, seeing the manger reminds us that God has come near, He draws us close enough to touch Him, to feel His presence, and even, at times, wound Him. He is not just a God who reigns over us but also a God who is WITH us. It's so good to hear that we can have a personal relationship with God and that He is not distant and unreachable.

Finally, the manger calls us to welcome a stranger. We need to come to a place of vulnerability and to open ourselves to others, even if it may be an inconvenience at times. It is not about feeling comfortable and staying without your clique. This applies in every setting, be it at home, school,university, in the workplace or during celebration on Sundays.

This final point really got me thinking about being a stranger. On Sundays, it is so easy to put on your best outfit, be on your best behaviour and make small talk with church folk who you don't know very well. For me, so much of it is on the surface. I realise that the reason why I put on “my best self” was out of fear that people won't like me. I would always strive for acceptance and a sense of belonging. What I didn't realise was that God has my DNA written in His hands and I'm not meant to be like Cindy or Sarah or Beth, I can only be Ching. So guys, be real! When I began to
peel back the layers formed to protect myself, I started to build real and genuine relationships and it really is such a blessing to have friends who have seen the best and worst parts of you.

Slightly on a tangent, but this is what I gained from the sermon!

Loveage,
Ching :)