Taking Time to Reflect

Since Christmas was only a few days ago, I wanted to reflect on some thoughts that roll around at this time of year: Why does Christmas matter? What is the point of Christmas?

Now, the Sunday School answer is “Why Jesus, of course!”

Others may say, “It’s all about family & being together with the ones you love.”

Kids are often quick to chime in with their yearly wish list & excitement of Santa.

But, while the Sunday School answer may be quick to jump into our minds, especially if we grew up in church or are a Christian… do our hearts really reflect that it’s about Him?

Excited for (Distracted by?) Traditions

This thought is something that has been lingering through my last few Christmases, myself being excited about getting things on my wish list, driving to see everyone’s decorations & lights, preparing delicious, specially-reserved-for-Christmas foods… Christmas cookies, carols, & maybe even a white Christmas (as long as I don’t have to be out in it).

I am quick to claim the meaning of Christmas as being Jesus. I am quick with the right answer of why Christmas matters, but I often feel like my heart tells that it’s mainly about me.

I have even been guilty of feeling & saying, “I just don’t feel in the “Christmas spirit” this year,” as if Christmas is about me feeling festive, with childlike excitement.

Why does Christmas matter? What really is my focus?

Am I Being Intentional in My Why?

How can I make it REALLY be about HIM? It is HIS birthday, after all (or at least the day we celebrate it).

So it’s something I have been trying to intentionally dwell on… that when I open my presents I remember that they are a mere shadow of the greatest gift ever given, when God sent Jesus to pay my price to make me right before God Almighty when I could never earn or deserve it.

That when I eat the foods, I recognize that God made my tastebuds to appreciate the flavors & created spice & variety of flavors & textures of food for me to enjoy.

That when I look at the lights, I remember He is the light in my times of darkness, that He shone His grace into the darkness of my sin, that His light guides me through His Word & the Holy Spirit’s help.

That friends & family are His treasures, made in His image, whom He also died for, to live humbly & graciously, serving those I care about knowing God cares for them all the more.

I have been trying to make Christmas a day of praise & thanksgiving to God, turning my heart in all the things I look forward to about Christmas into opportunities to recognize God’s presence & love & grace in my life.

Jesus, the Light of the World

Before God even made me, before time even began, God knew I would rebel against Him & think & act like I know better than Him. He knew I would want my own way over His. He knew my stubborn heart would kick & fight to have her own way.

And He knew I could never do enough to pay Him back.

He says that the punishment for my sin is eternal death in Hell. That’s what I deserve. That is what I have earned.

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

And He knew all that before He even made me… before time began.

He knew HE would have to pay my price for me if I were to be reconciled to Him, forgiven & restored.

And He was willing.

And He sent Jesus.

Why Does Christmas Matter?

Christmas is not just a celebration of Jesus’ birthday, but of Jesus being willing to humble Himself, as God, in the flesh of weak humanity, serving & loving & teaching & healing all who came to Him… until He was rejected by the very people He came to save, dying willingly on the cross for me… for you.

So why does Christmas matter? It’s okay, go ahead & say it: it matters because of JESUS.

Jesus-Emmanuel-God with Us

So, during this season, take some time to praise Him & thank Him for His goodness & love & mercy & power… His foresight & His plan to redeem. For Jesus.

Jesus is why Christmas matters… & let us not forget that fact in the hustle & bustle of traditions & well-meaning distracted chaos.

Jesus, God with us. Emmanuel.

Thank You, Jesus. THANK YOU.

Shine Hope by proclaiming the Good News: Jesus came to save all who accept Him & believe on Him! Hallelujah indeed! Praise Jesus!

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one & only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” (John 3:16-17)

Amen.

Coming Next Week

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Darling Charms Set (2 of 6 shown) (India)

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