Christmas is full of paradox. We read about the poverty and humility of Jesus’ birth in a manger and yet we surround ourselves with the wealth and indulgence of gift-giving. We think about warm houses and fireplaces with families gathered around, but read about a cold night in Bethlehem with a lone couple in a dingy stable giving birth to the Savior of the world. Could it be that we have forgotten what really took place that night? Could it be that the most important thing we ever need to know: the identity of the baby born in the manger, has been obscured by the circumstances surrounding His birth and the celebrations we hold to commemorate it? Missing the wonder of this baby is as tragic and scary as losing a child in a crowded mall!