"Love Came Down at Christmas"

Most of you are probably familiar with the concept. The lines actually come from a poem by  Christina Rossetti first published without a title in 1885. All Christians are aware that Christ was born because of love for us. It was the beginning of God's plan to make a way for fallen humanity to live in Paradise with Him after they die.

However, God's plan and love encompass so much more than this. He wants to have a close, loving relationship with us right here, right now. He wants to bless our lives, guide us in what's best, and have us live lives of joy near Him. It's not just about understanding that Jesus came as a baby so we could eventually go to be with Him in Heaven, although this is wonderful enough in itself. It's also about experiencing a life with our Lord in the present.

This is why God created Adam and Eve in the first place, for special companionship. It's why He gave them the gift of free will. But they chose to sin and had to leave the Garden of Eden, bequeathing all of us a sinful nature. As sinners, we cannot be in the presence of Holy God. Therefore, to reestablish the original closeness, Jesus came and carried all our sins to the cross, so we can experience God as He meant for us to. All we have to do is accept what Christ did for us. Yes, Jesus came down at Christmas with unconditional love so great and magnificent we can hardly conceive it.

Love came down at Christmas.

Love all lovely, Love Divine,

Love was born at Christmas, 

Star and Angels gave the sign.

Worship we the Godhead,

Love incarnate, Love Divine,

Worship we our Jesus,

But wherewith for sacred sign?

Love shall be our token,

Love be yours and love be mine,

Love to God and all men,

Love for plea and gift and sign.

                 - Christina Rossetti -

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