WHAT WAS GOD THINKING?
Today's reading:  Luke 2

Just what was God thinking when a harried innkeeper turned his back on a young couple needing a room for the night?  As he shuffled them out to the barn?  As he failed to notice the importance of the evening, the Baby to be born and the new way that had come to Bethlehem?

What was God thinking when a young, exhausted mother tried to nurse the Christ Child for the first time while a carpenter-dad looked on, worried that his large, calloused hands might break the Baby if he were to hold it?

What did God think when the Babe's first visitors were not dignities of high office, kings or heads of state, but a motley crew of haggard shepherds?  What did He think as the grizzled faces bent low to see the One?  As the weathered hands reached out to touch Him? 

What did God think as the three learned men approached with their caravans and presented the Newborn with gifts of myrrh, frankincense and gold?  Gold.  Gold?  The asphalt of heaven for the new King.

What did God think as the host of angels announced the birth?  Did He think it was over the top?  Did He think it was not enough?

What does God think as we attempt to re-write the importance of the day with gifts, decorated trees, day-long television marathons about little boys wanting BB guns and shopping?

What was God thinking?

Thankfully, He was thinking about me!  About how very much I'd need a Savior.  About how very much I'd be intrigued each year as the Nativity pieces are put into place.  About how I stand in awe of His choice in writing that certain piece of history--the details, the twists, the turns, the characters sent straight from Heaven.

Merry Christmas--and thank you God for thinking of me!