Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’”—Luke 2:13-14
For children, Christmas Eve seems to last forever as they lie in bed, bubbling with anticipation. Then, Christmas morning becomes center stage to Christmas joy as children swoop upon the gifts under the tree. The air is charged with electricity as gifts are opened with gasps of joy and looks of amazement. Even as adults, it is exciting to see children during those moments of happiness and excitement as they open gifts they’ve long waited to receive.
That childlike exuberance on Christmas morning celebrates the answer to a child’s hopes and dreams for that special gift from someone who loves them. That same exuberance and joy is part of the adult celebration of Christmas, or at least should be. After all, Christmas is the time we celebrate fulfillment of our hopes and dreams, a very special gift from someone who loves us unconditionally.
Beyond the shopping, parties, cooking, decorating and even the gift giving and receiving, Christmas is the reminder that God is a faithful God who fulfills His promises. Beginning with Genesis 3:15, God promised a savior to redeem humanity from the bondage and penalty of sin. After centuries of anticipation, Christmas was the culmination of that promise.
Christmas is the perpetual message of hope for the hopeless, peace for those in turmoil, and joy to the disheartened. The birth of a Savior is assurance God hasn’t forgotten us; it is the evidence He loves us more than we could ever fathom. Christmas is the constant reminder that we are never alone because of Immanuel—God is with us.
Children celebrate with unbridled enthusiasm on Christmas morning, but only after they’ve opened their gift. As we prepare to celebrate this season, may we “open” the true gift of Christmas for ourselves, and joyfully share that gift with others.
Lesson to Remember: You can truly celebrate the Christmas season only if you know the Christ.
“Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”—Luke 2:20
Nat,
Indeed, Jesus is the reason for the celebration!
Many Thanks to you for a great year of education and inspiration from the word of God in your unique way that was perfect. Job Well Done and Most Appreciated!
Carl, Thank you. I am grateful for the opportunity to share the words each week, and grateful you and others choose to read the blog.