Loving others.

Mankind is, by its fallen nature, selfish. The philosophy of life of so many is expressed in the words of the world's first murderer: "...am I my brother's keeper?" (Gen.4:9). In our contemporary situation, we may hear: "I'm alright, Jack; I do not care for you!"; "You have to put yourself first!"; "I'm looking after No.1!"

Of course, this is not the pattern for anyone who claims to be a disciple of Jesus, the Christ. As we grow in grace, we should begin to think more of others, and less of ourselves. Paul writes: "... let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to edify him. For Christ did not please himself; " (Rom 15:2-3).

I recently read the story of two soldiers who had just been released from a prison camp in Siberia, at the end of the Second World War. "We did our best," an officer later reported, "to repatriate the men as quickly as possible, but many were still there when the winter ice threatened to close the port."  Only a limited number could board the last small boat. Among those who were awaiting transport were two soldiers who had been mates right through the war. One of them was selected to leave, but the other was one who would have to be left behind. Because of the space limitations, the order was given that those who were leaving could bring with them only one kit-bag. 

The heart of the man who was chosen went out to his comrade-in-arms. He immediately emptied his kit-bag of its prized souvenirs and his few personal belongings, and told his companion to get into the canvas sack. Then, carefully lifting the bag on to his shoulders, he boarded the vessel with his friend. Just one kit-bag - but a very precious content! This was a man who truly loved beyond himself.

As the Christmas season rapidly approaches, many of us remember that the One Who was born in Bethlehem, some 2,000 years ago, was not an ordinary infant. He was Almighty God Incarnate (in the flesh). "Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see; Hail! the incarnate Deity." He grew up; was recognised as a rabbi (teacher); spoke words of love and encouragement to many - and words of challenge and condemnation to others!; was put through mockeries of trials; declared to be guilty; crucified, and entombed. Why? that is a question on which I have preached on a number of occasions. However, one simple answer is that He went through all of that for you, and for me. He " ... bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness." (I Peter 2:24). He put you, and me, first. That should be the goal of each of us. His is the great example.

As most of us enjoy the coming celebrations, let us be careful to think of others as well as of ourselves. Let us remember that the Child in the manger, became the Christ of the cross - and let us worship and adore Him as is His right.