As Christmas excitement builds, when our culture honors the baby Jesus, I am reminded of the whole story of Jesus saving us by his sacrificial death and surprising resurrection.

I was moved by this hymn this morning, translated for us by Charles Wesley. I felt drawn to these three verses of the hymn.  I need this reminder, always.

Could it be that I bear some responsibility for such a terrible deed, along with all us needy sinners?

Extended on a cursed tree,
Besmeared with dust, and sweat, and blood,
See there, the King of Glory see!
Sinks and expires the Son of God.

Who, who, my Savior, this hath done?
Who could Thy sacred body wound?
No guilt Thy spotless heart hath known,
No guile hath in Thy lips been found. 

I, I alone, have done the deed!
’Tis I Thy sacred flesh have torn;
My sins have caused Thee, Lord, to bleed,
Pointed the nail, and fixed the thorn.

Text by Paul Gerhardt, in German. (1607-1676)  Translated into English by Charles Wesley

I ponder the words, I…pointed the nail, and fixed the thorn.  The true meaning of Christmas!  For me!