The Real Reason for the Season

Just five days until Christmas!  Can you believe it?  It feels like we were just here a minute ago.  This year has been so different that time has run together and I found myself behind the 8-ball.  I just got some Christmas cards in the mail and still have several to get out there – of course, I’ve been planning to get them out since Thanksgiving and it just didn’t work.  So, I get how this year feels different.  I’ve even heard some mention cancelling Christmas.  For that, I call a resounding, “NO.”

The real meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-20).  That’s it.  Yes, we give gifts and yes, families get together during this time and while some of those traditions may be different or changed this year, Jesus was still born as a gift from God to the entire world (Titus 3:4-7).  That doesn’t change no matter how our circumstances change.  Given that and everything going on in the world, this is an even more important time to remember God’s gift and to celebrate Jesus’ birth.  

I don’t know about you, but when I look at the world today and my own life, I see an even greater need to share and celebrate the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus on a wide scale.  The one great thing about Jesus coming is that now we can go to the Father for ourselves……we don’t need a priest to go before God for us.  We can reach out to God in prayer through Jesus for ourselves.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s wonderful to have people in relationship with God praying for us and with us, but we don’t have to wait for them.  

During this time, I challenge you to emphasize with those around you the real reason for the season and share the Good News of Jesus.  Jesus is the author of our peace and it’s clear with all the unrest in the world, He is what we all need (Isaiah 9:6).  

I wish you a very Merry Christmas and pray God’s blessings over you and your families.  May you be blessed beyond measure with love, laughter, peace and joy that will blow your mind and that of those around you!  And, may your life be a reflection of your relationship with Jesus – you may be the only reflection of Jesus some people see!

Remember, be wise this holiday season and protect those around you as much as possible.  Listen to the experts and take precautions to do your part – wash your hands, wear a face covering and maintain social distancing.  Quarantine if you believe you’ve been exposed.  Our loved ones are too important to risk them for our own pleasure.  Take care and stay safe.