With all the emphasis placed on gifts, shopping, activities, decorations and even family time, it is easy for the true meaning of the season to get lost. And that true meaning is Jesus. Unfortunately, this true meaning has been lost or rather mingled with other messages that have worldly origins. For many, Christmas has become all about money, commercialism, greed, partying and of course, the myth that is Santa Claus.
Yes, Jesus may not have been born on December 25th. There are arguments that because of this, there is no valid reason to tie this holiday with a celebration of his birth. However, what is important is not the day his birth occurred itself but the need to celebrate what was a significant part of history. So, while December 25th may not have been the day He was born, it certainly is the day that we should set aside to celebrate His birth.
While all the activities and fanfare surrounding Christmas makes it very enjoyable, we as a people should always remember that these are just mere accessories; the gifts, the food, the music etc. are merely used to “glamorize” what should be the main attraction (although the birth of Jesus was a miraculous event in itself, one that does not need glitz or glam). However, with Christmas decorations being put up earlier and earlier every year, these things are no longer considered accessories but rather the main attraction, causing the true reason to either be given scant attention or completely discarded. However, it is important that we always remember that the only reason we should celebrate Christmas is to acknowledge the birth of Jesus Christ.
Everyone loves to receive presents on Christmas day. We all look forward to unwrapping our gifts, hoping to see the one thing we have had our eye on for the entire year. But are we missing the one gift that God gives us not only on this day but every day? That one and only gift we really need is the gift of God’s Son. And He is available to be unwrapped any day and anytime. It is forever, it is free and it is truly all that we need, whether at Christmas or all year round. Added to the gift of His Son is another bonus, the gift of eternal life as long as we believe and accept Him as our Lord and Savior. Other gifts we receive at Christmas won’t last forever, nor will they bring us lifelong joy and happiness. The only thing that can do that is Jesus. This breakdown of the word Christmas is the perfect way to remember that Jesus is the true reason for the season:
C – the Christ child born in the manger.
H – the Hope that Jesus brings to those who believe and trust in Him for their salvation.
R – the Resurrection of Jesus that makes it possible for us to have eternal life through Him.
I – Immanuel: God is with us.
S – the Salvation that Jesus offers to anyone willing to accept it, confess their sins and believe.
T – the empty Tomb on Easter morning
M – the Mercy that God has continuously shown us, even when we don’t deserve it.
A – an Awesome God who epitomizes the true meaning of unconditional love.
S – the Shining light that Jesus brought into the world.
There are many arguments as to why Jesus isn’t the reason for the season. One of these arguments is that salvation and eternal life is ours due to His death not his birth and therefore, there is no need to celebrate his birth. But how could he die, without being born? It is through his birth and life that made his death and salvation possible for all who believe. Therefore, his birth deserves as much celebration as his death.
In getting wrapped up in the materialistic side of Christmas, the side that is displayed on our televisions in advertisements, movies and competitions, we lose the true meaning of Christmas and then sometimes what should really be a joyful and celebratory occasion, becomes one of sorrow and despair because some can’t afford the presents, or the food or even simple decorations. This was never God’s intention. It is a time of year that we should remember to be happy despite not being able to afford the materialistic things because we have the one thing that truly matters – Christ. That alone should bring us the joy, peace, happiness and hope that the season of Christmas was intended to bring.
With Jesus being the main reason for the season, it goes to reason that we should act like He did in the world. We should be caring and generous to those who need help, we should be willing to open our hearts to both Him and his people and most importantly, we should spread the hope that his birth brought to the world.
“Even if Jesus was born a thousand times, and He was not born in your heart, Christmas will be meaningless to you.” – Heuning
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