Jesus

This time of year brings out such a spirit of joy and giving. All the colorful lights around town and the stores lined with goodies, and toys. One thing I am enjoying lately is hearing about people’s favorite Christmas traditions and recipes. From decorating the tree together to family ski trips, while others are content to get cozy by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa. People are trying out delicious new recipes, while others are sticking to the traditional ham and turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. I’ve been listening to people talk about having all their shopping done, as they smile triumphantly, while others are still frantically looking for that perfect gift. I thought about children looking forward to a visit from Santa Claus, and waking up with excitement on Christmas day to open gifts. I wondered, amongst all the Christmas rush and holiday cheer is there room for Jesus? He is the real reason for Christmas after all. 

In fact, Jesus should be at the center of it all. I think even as Christians we sometimes drop the ball and get too caught up in the ‘Christmas Spirit,’ forgetting that it’s really all about Jesus and the fact that He came to earth to save us. Sure, the family gatherings and creating sweet memories are beautiful. But let’s not forget the beauty of the story of Christ. The story of how the Creator saw that His creation was in dire need and He knew He had to come to help us. It’s the story of how the King of all Kings, traded in His royal garments for swaddling clothes, mere linen cloth. A story of how the love and compassion of Jesus, moved Him to the point that He came here knowing that His main purpose for being born was to die. A story of love, unconditional and undying love. The next time you give a gift, or see the the sparkling Christmas lights, the next time you listen to the songs that speak of a silent night or the little town of Bethlehem; the next time you hear about how the three kings came bearing gifts for the baby in a manger, remember why Jesus came. He came to seek and save the lost. Jesus came so that we could have joy, peace, and an abundant life. Remember that He wasn’t just born to show us the way to be saved, but He came to die to make a way for us to be saved. And remember  Jesus will come again, this time it will be to take His people back with Him. 

Matthew 6:33 

1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14

John 10:10, Romans 15:13

Romans 5:8, Romans 6:23

1Thessalonians 4:16-17, John 14:3, Hebrews 9:28