A Russian Christmas Story!

I had heard this story from someone and it had made such an impact on my heart that I never forgot it! In 1994 two Americans answered an invitation from the Russian Department of Education to teach morals and ethics based on biblical principles in the public schools and orphanages. During Christmas time that year, they told the story of Christmas in an orphanage.  After the story, the children were given some cardboard to make a crude manger.  One of the Americans walked around to see if anyone needed help. When he came to the table where little Misha sat, the American was shocked to see two babies in the manger. Calling for a translator, the American asked little Misha the reason for two babies in the manger.  

Misha was around six or seven and had heard the Christmas story just once.  But he related the happenings accurately—until he came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in the manger. Then Misha said, "When Mary laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay. I told Him I have no momma and no papa, so I don't have any place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with Him. But I told Him I couldn't because I didn't have a gift to give him as everybody else did. But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much that I thought maybe if I could keep Jesus warm that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, "If I keep you warm, would that be a good enough gift?" And Jesus told me, that it would be the best gift anybody ever gave Him.  So I got into the manger and Jesus told me that I could stay with Him—for always."

As I heard this story about little Misha my eyes filled with tears. The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon nor abuse him, someone who would stay with him—for always!  Covid 19 has left many abandoned and alone.  Many have lost their loved ones and are feeling lonely this Christmas season. Many are feeling down due to sickness and pain. Whatever may be the reason, the good news is that we have Jesus, our Emmanuel to stay with us 'for always.'  

My friend, all of us have a place in that manger with Jesus for Jesus has promised never to leave us alone.  Have a blessed Christmas!

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