Dear Ones:
We live in an age when there is the worship of “knowledge,” and of those who seek to dominate others by such. Though the knowledge of the truth is necessary, even essential, in the domain of our work, and in our living, we need to remember that our knowledge is nothing compared to the One, “…in whom are hid ALL the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Col. 2:3) Now, why is it so important to understand this, especially at this time of year when we celebrate Christ’s birth?
When Zacharias had the vision of the angel, announcing to him that a son would be born to him in his old age, one that would be the precursor to Christ, we see a “learned” man, but not possessing a Ph D. When we see Mary, the mother of Jesus, we see a young woman who is evidently intelligent, but with no degree except that of “faith” in the University of God. When we look at Joseph her husband, charged with faithfully following the direction of God in the care of Mary and her infant Son Jesus, we see a man who is a carpenter by trade, but not distinguished by the title of Ph D. Now, we would not minimize the title, or merit associated a Ph D. But what we would emphasize is that in God’s economy, “…knowledge shall vanish away.” (1 Cor. 13:8) “… but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” (1 John 2:17) Does it not stand to reason that the One who IS knowledge, truth, wisdom…does not want us to make a god of such? So, what is God declaring to us concerning the birth of Christ, this Savior who came to save us all? It is that His ways and thoughts are NOT ours. His value system is “not of this world.” When Jesus says that we are to pray, “…Thy will be done, as it is in heaven, ” He speaks of another realm, a realm of blessing and life that are known as we humbly receive the truth of Him, and what He says.
In this season leading up to Christmas, the great calling and purpose of God, remains every moment the same…”that we might KNOW Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ who Thou hast sent.” (Jn. 17:3) Christ is not known in the great halls of man’s “knowledge” but in the lowliness of a stable, the humbleness of simple beginnings and living, and in the quietness and confidence in His presence. When the wise men from the East came to find Christ, this “King of the Jews,” they did not find Him in a palace. And their worship of Him was very simple… bowing before Him, presenting Him with precious, worthy gifts. What a contrast…shepherds who came to do Him homage, and wise men who came bearing valuable gifts. Shepherds and wise men…all the same at the feet of Jesus the King.
So, let us remember that God is not known by the position we might hold in society, nor by the amount of knowledge on any subject that we might have. He is not known by going to a palace, nor by personal wealth and prized possessions. Jesus Christ is known in only one way…by faith, believing wholly in Him. There is no price that one can put on that. It is a gift, an immeasureable gift from heaven, that is given to shepherds and wisemen alike…and to those who will humbly receive it. Dear Lord, grant that we shall not only be those who wholly commit ourselves into Thy loving hands, but learn to receive humbly, every day, of Thy fulness and goodness. Enable us indeed, to walk humbly with Thee.
Love, Dad