The Meaning of Christmas

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It’s that time of year when I think many of us ponder the questions, “What’s it all about?” “What’s the meaning of all this decorating and buying?” “Why do we do it?”

This year, the meaning of Christmas is stirring in me at deeper levels. I’m seeing the season in a new perspective as I relisten to our Pastor Robert Morris give new insights and I study books such as Because of Bethlehem by Max Lucado.

I’ve long been jaded by the commercialism of Christmas. Over the years, our traditions have evolved, focusing on family more than spending, participating in celebrations and events at our church. In all this, we’re striving to honor the reason for the season.

All too often, I think we also lose sight of Jesus in another way. We see him as the infant in the manger. Images of our own experience with babies filter and distort our view of Jesus. We remember the funny faces, the first smiles, the coos, the eyes wide in wonder and study.

We forget Jesus’ uniqueness. He’s the only person ever born who knew he was going to die a horrible death and when that would happen. And he knew why he did it. For me and for you.

Jesus, our God, became human so he could die for me personally. And for you as well. For every person on this Earth.

Easter begins at Christmas. A straight line connects the two. Jesus came at Christmas so Easter could happen.

Jesus, our God, came to save you and me and to open the way to eternal life with him. And he came so we could have a personal relationship with him every day. He really does want us to be in his presence every day.

I wish you all a joyous Christmas and a freshening in your hearts of why Jesus came.

Merry Christmas!

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