David Penner from New Jersey is a happier man this Christmas. Fifteen years ago he lost his wedding ring at Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm, and despite returning to search for it, it couldn’t be found. He thought it was gone forever. Sadly his wife passed away in September this year, and he couldn’t even wear his ring in her memory. Then on 2nd December, and to his great surprise, he heard it had been found, “I thought it was a miracle,” he said. David grabbed his wedding certificate and drove to the farm, where he was reunited with his ring.

David’s experience echoes the real story of Christmas. God, the Creator of us all, wants each one of us to know Him, to enjoy His love and the abundant life He offers. Sadly mankind turned away. We were ‘lost’ to our Creator. Two thousand years ago He came to the Earth He created, and became one of us. As He Himself said, He “came to seek and to save the lost.” One day He will return again, just like David Penner did, to reclaim those who in humility and love recognise their need of Him.

The Ancient Scriptures describe Jesus as the Bridegroom, who will return, not for a wedding ring, but to receive His bride: that is all those who, unsatisfied by what this world can offer, are eagerly awaiting His return. David Penner returned to the farm and took his ring home. In the same way Jesus will take home those who belong to Him.

So Christmas really is a love story, when we remember that first visit and look forward to the next.

“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.”

Revelation 22:17 (NIVUK)

Yes, you too can share in this love story, you too can be a part of His bride. Are you thirsty for something you can’t quite put your finger on? Do you feel there must be more to life than you’ve found so far? Your Creator is waiting for you – will you follow Him?