In 2007, England’s Queen Elizabeth II decided to make a short 6-day visit to the United States. While most people would pack a couple of suitcases… the queen travelled much heavier. In fact, it was estimated that her gear weighed in at two to three tons! What could she possibly have brought that weighed so much? The list included clothes, a diamond tiara, her gowns, her crown, gifts, paperwork, and up to 50 pairs of white gloves. In addition, her personal affects included several framed photos of her family, her favorite tea and teapot, large quantities of favorite brand of water, and special medicines that she required. Planning and packing took eight months.
All for a six day visit.
But not all royalty travels with such fanfare. Over 2000 years ago, a little child entered the world that would forever change it. He would grow up, heal the sick, raise the dead, teach the masses about God’s love, serve those He created, allow Himself to be crucified, and resurrect back to glorious life. All while maintaining very few possessions, keeping a selectively small circle of close confidantes, and having a low profile. Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, came out of Heaven that Christmas morning… not weighed down with stuff… but burdened with the sins of the world. In a couple of days we will celebrate Christ’s royal arrival… and as we observe Christmas.. let us never forget that Jesus travelled light for a reason. It was so that He could spend His time intentionally… not worried about bringing everything with him… but making sure He didn’t leave without us.
Merry Christmas!
