And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:8-12

I recently found myself in a conversation amongst friends about different religions and belief systems around the world. As we talked, I finally just blurted out that "Christianity is just so different from the rest... it's so much better." As we talked about the different belief systems and "truth claims," I couldn't help but erupt with the statement that, in the marketplace of ideas, Jesus is King. In the conversations surrounding life, fulfilment, the afterlife, God, truth, and what to do about all of the biggest questions surrounding our existence, Christianity says something altogether different from the rest. The message of the Gospel is that life, love, peace, joy, reconciliation, power, hope, purpose, glory, validation, vindication, freedom, eternity, and whatever other transcendent things you can think of CAME TO US in the PERSON Jesus.  In a world of religions, philosophies and ideas that seek for man to ascend (to get to them), the message of the Gospel is that God came down, bringing all that we long for, look for and need to us.

And the craziest part is, it's all the free gift of grace for all people! We need only humble ourselves, believe and receive the life and love He offers us.

As we finish our four weeks of advent, let's consider the scandal of God's grace, which has been given to all of us, in the person of King Jesus.

May YOU have a merry Christmas, and may YOU find all that you have been in search of has already come in search of you.

PS. This is the last Monday Minute until 2021. Enjoy the Holidays, folks, and may God richly bless you in 2021! These are incredible days, and I believe God is up to something big. Buckle up :)