I knew it was going to be a glorious day when I looked out at the sun coming up this morning. This is my back yard. It’s early morning when the sun is just coming up. In the darkness, I could see it… the sun. Soon there would be light.

“And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Gen. 1:3 NIV). It’s a new day now. See the deep blue threaded among the trees? Those are the Shenandoah Blue Mountains. How blessed I am to have a view of them from my upstairs window… but only in the winter when the leaves are gone. Each season has its gifts.

Nature is a gift which gives me strength when my life is in chaos. When my house is messy with Christmas gift wrapping, laundry, and the emotional and physical pain I carry each day; seeing God’s beautiful natural creation grounds me. It reminds me that Jesus is continuing to heal me and change my circumstances, and that there is something much bigger and better than myself and my problems… the silver lining…. my salvation in Jesus Christ.

Each season has its own beauty and surprises. I wonder what the wisemen and shepherds saw on their journey to see Jesus. Did they notice the beauty of the season in their anticipation? Did they marvel at the clear, starry skies? Were they in awe of the star which was shining brighter than all the rest; the star which actually led them to baby Jesus? Were majestic camels lit up in the moonlight? Did the rugged and noble men cuddle up to keep warm with the sheep while running their fingers through the soft, wooly warmth? Did the travelers delight in the scents of frankincense and myrrh which they carefully carried along with gold; in sacks of fine linen, to bring to our newborn King?

Without a doubt, the blessed and chosen travelers absolutely saw the beauty of the season! The Bible says, “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger’” (Luke 2:9-12).

And what could be more beautiful or amazing than what happened next?

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests’” (Luke 2:13-14).

That means us! Favor rests upon those of us who love God’s Son! Let us then, look around; for it’s Christmas time! No matter what season in which we currently find ourselves, if we trust Jesus, we can know without a doubt, that God will make everything beautiful in His time for each and every one of us. When God’s children worship Jesus, there is light. The world never looks more beautiful than the times we focus on our Savior!

Jesus was born in the wilderness, in humble surroundings. If you find yourself alone in the wilderness today, call out his name. You will find him there: “And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel” (Luke 1:80).

God’s gift of forgiveness and salvation in Jesus Christ is free for everyone. If you want to accept His gift of eternal life, here is some help towards unwrapping the greatest gift you will ever receive!