Hello ,

When Queen Victoria ruled England, it was said that when she entered a room, everyone stood — not just out of respect for her crown, but because her presence carried a kind of weight. Royalty has always commanded reverence.

Now imagine the opposite: a King stepping off His throne, removing His crown, laying aside His majesty… and choosing a cradle instead of a palace.

Paul writes, “Though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). And again, “He emptied Himself… taking the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:7).

Christmas is the moment the greatest King the world has ever known chose humility over honor so He could bring you home.

Every other religion tells the story of humanity trying to climb up to God. Christianity tells the story of God climbing down to us. Jesus didn’t come as a warrior, a politician, or a ruler demanding allegiance. He came as an infant — vulnerable, reachable, touchable — so you would never be afraid to draw near.

Why did He come? Because salvation required a sacrifice only He could give.

The manger was the shadow of the cross. Bethlehem was the doorway to Golgotha. He came not just to live among us but to rescue us — to bear the weight of our sin, our shame, our rebellion, our brokenness… and exchange it for righteousness.

In a world chasing status, Jesus chose surrender. In a world obsessed with appearance, He chose obscurity. In a world fighting for position, He chose a feeding trough as His first throne.

And He did it for love.

This Christmas, don’t just admire the baby — worship the Savior. Marvel that the King of Glory wrapped Himself in humanity so He could wrap you in grace. You are the reason He came. Salvation is the gift He refused to withhold.

Today's Musical Selection:  "Comfort Ye"

Have a great day and God bless!

Pastor Mike / The Open Word