All Wrapped Up

“Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith – to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever! Amen.” Romans 16:25-27

Last week I shared a picture of our family Christmas tree with gifts already underneath. It was pointed out to me that it might be a form of torture to make our kids see the presents so many days before Christmas. Absolutely! To make it even more fun, we assign a particular wrapping paper for each member of the family but we don’t tell the kids which paper is theirs.  I think we’re up to eight or nine different wrapper papers in play this year, which has the kids really stretching their heads. What’s the point of parenting if you can’t mess with your kids at Christmas? It makes Christmas morning that much more fun.

Our short epistle reading for this coming Sunday speaks of secrets revealed. God had long promised the gift of salvation through the words of the prophets, but the people had to wait. In the fullness of time, the mystery of the gospel was unwrapped and revealed. The baby of Bethlehem wrapped lovingly by Mary in bands of cloth is God wrapped up in human flesh. As we wait for Christmas, we need no longer wait for the gift of the gospel. Christ is here. To him be the glory forever!

Be well, friends. You are loved.

Forgive us, God, for getting so wrapped up in ourselves! As we wait in Advent, give us eyes to look for your coming and faith to know you are with us know. Help us to unfold the mysteries of salvation for others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: A few of the presents. I hope Erika remembers which paper belongs to which person!