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As you know, the frontiers of our world have rapidly changed.  They’ve changed from earth to space, from manual to computer and from horsepower to nuclear power.  Some amazing scientific advances have led to an era of unparalleled scientific wonders.  And our imaginations are rich with what may lie ahead.  So why should we pause and look back some 2000 years in the past when all eyes are focused on the present and future?  Why should we recall some smelly old stable in an out of the way place called Bethlehem?  And why should our hearts thrill again as we hear or read the words, “And she brought forth her first born son, wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7).

In other words, why do we need Christmas to come?

First, we need Christmas to come because we need a deeper spiritual insight!  A German scientist had the ability to fashion with his hands what he desired with his mind.  One day he went into his laboratory and decided to make a man.  As he was putting the finishing touches on this creation of his genius, all of a sudden the creation sat up and shouted, “Give me a soul!”  It so startled the scientist that he ran out into the darkness only to be pursued by his creation shouting, “Give me a soul!” “Give me a soul!” “Give me a soul!”  I submit to you that’s about where we are in the world today!  All of creation shouting for a soul.

Second, we need Christmas to come because we need to feel and express the good will in our hearts toward our fellow human beings!  The blessedness of loving and giving comes alive to us at Christmas.  You see, it was at Christmas that God renewed his investment in humankind and because of that investment we renew our own investment in each other.  That’s where all the cards, gifts and other kindnesses evolve.

Third, we need Christmas to come because we need to keep the precious vision of peace before the world!  In a world that can only be described as a world gone mad-a world of violence, division, prejudice and greed-Christmas comes with its beautiful vision of peace.  “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given…And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

Fourth, we need Christmas to come because we need a renewed understanding of the love of God!  The most persistent quest of humankind has been for a more perfect knowledge of God.  And who of us out of our own experience does not long for God?  When we find ourselves going through some valley of the shadow who of us does not hunger and thirst for the Eternal?  If the truth were known all of us yearn for more of God.

Then suddenly, suddenly, there he is on Christmas Day!  “The word became flesh and dwelt among us full of grace and truth”)John 1:14).

And so we will pause and look back at a little stable in Bethlehem and we will remember.  Oh yes, we will remember!  We will remember!