From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

On that first Christmas night in Bethlehem, “God was manifested in the flesh” (1 Timothy 3:16). This manifestation was in the person of Jesus Christ coming in the form of a newborn Babe. The Scripture says concerning Christ, “In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).

This manifestation of God is by far the most complete revelation God ever gave to the world. If you want to know what God is like, then take a long look at Jesus Christ. In Him were displayed not only the perfections that had been exhibited in the creation—such as wisdom, power, and majesty—but also such divine perfections as justice, mercy, grace, and love.

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). To His disciples Jesus said, “You believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1). This sequence of faith is inevitable. If we believe in what God made and what God said, we will believe in the One whom God sent.

It is easy to get caught up in the fascination of the season. But we should not let the tinsel and the novelty of this holiday blind us from the truth of the Christmas story that will transform hearts and lives. The truth of the nativity that centers on why Jesus came to earth—to save mankind—can be real in each heart.

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow … and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11).

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

Ask Christ into your life. Pray now.