They knew the journey would take weeks, so they packed lots of food.

They knew the weather would be harsh, so they packed a super-strong tent.

They knew the path would be rocky, so they packed sturdy boots.

They knew the trail would be disorienting, so they brought an expensive compass.

They knew wild animals would be a threat, so they packed weapons.

They knew the route spanned rivers, so they brought an inflatable raft.

And they knew the risk of injury was real, so they brought a first aid kit.

Yet despite their best preparations, 10 days into their trip, our two hikers got lost.

"Help us!," read the distress message, "We're completely turned around and hopelessly lost."

The 3-person rescue squad jumped into action and sent the only person who knew the terrain, the only person who knew the weather, the threats, and the danger.

It was someone who'd been in that situation before, was committed to rescuing any hiker in distress and who had saved every hiker who'd ever asked for help. 

His name is Jesus.

When Christians talk about what it means for Jesus to' 'save' us, this is what we mean: All of us get ready for life's journey the very best we can, yet in spite of our most thorough preparations, we still get lost, we still get in trouble, we still find ourselves in scary places and unable to get back home - and it’s Jesus who rescues us.

Christmas tells us that God doesn't want us lost, but God wants to help us find our way, to find ourselves, to find our way home - So God became human to show us that God understands and God is able to help us get there.

So Christmas invites us to articulate the ways we have lost our way - from peace, joy, patience, and harmony - and to remember that there is one who has the means and desire to come to our aid.

How are we not yet home - and how can Jesus help?