In a culture, which is increasingly secularized, there are many people who have no clue what Christmas truly means. Christmas in the eyes of the world is combing the stores in frustration. It is searching the Christmas tree lots for just the right tree. It is listening to dogs barking to the tune of “Jingle Bells”. The world is offering a hollow and shallow substitute for the true meaning of Christmas.
The controversies surrounding Christmas have been all over the media again this year. The Christ-child is being asked to leave more and more places. But isn’t that the reality of Christmas? A child is born into the world and the world ignores him. He was unwelcome the first Christmas and many wanted to destroy him. His teachings are still regarded as dangerous by many. We are expected to celebrate Christmas but we are not supposed to remember why. People are still offended at him. People still reject him. People still try to forget him and ignore his presence.
The Gospel of John gives us the true meaning of Christmas. It says: “Now this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (John 17:3). What would it have been like if Jesus never came? What would the story of our lives be? Without his coming there is no meaning, there is no reason. But because he came we can experience a true and fulfilling purpose for our lives.
This is a season to be thankful for all of God's blessings and to be reminded of the gift God gave to each of us. This is a time of year to give and to bless others as God has blessed us. It is so easy to be overwhelmed by all the demands of the holidays. Let's remember why we celebrate Christmas. Don’t allow stress to rob you of your Christmas. Focus on today and prioritize your schedule. Make time for daily devotions and prayer. Even in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holidays nothing is more important than our relationship with the Lord.
Don't allow your Christmas to be stolen. It can happen when you least expect it. Stay focused during this very busy season. After all Jesus is the Reason for the Season!
Merry Christmas! It's such a wonderful time of the year!
