Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 December 14

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
(Luke 2:1-14)

Today's Morsel:  I often wonder why we seem to wait until the month of December to tell the Christmas story.  Didn't Jesus commission us to go preach the gospel to every creature?  So why do so many wait until December to do it?  I recently read in a magazine that most Christians are afraid to share their faith with others.  Why do we go about wanting to do more good deeds in December than the rest of the year?  As born again believers, Jesus said that we should always be letting our light shine.  Therefore, we should be telling the world every day about the Savior and seizing every opportunity we get to share Him with others.  I believer that many would enjoy Christmas a whole lot more if they knew what it meant before December arrived.  

Sing:  Go tell it on the mountain, over the hill and everywhere. Go tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!

Thought For Today:  Why don’t you be a Christmas tree this year?​