The Spirit of Christmas
Now that Thanksgiving has passed, it is time for the Christmas season to commence. Yes, now is the time for shopping, children's programs, and late night wrapping sessions. This beautiful season does come with its busyness; and yet, there are many reasons why Christmas is the best time of the year. As we celebrate the season with the sentimental decorations, candles burning brightly, and divine music permeating our abode, let’s remember to celebrate. For it is a delightful time of the year when family gathers, laughter fills the air, and our sugary palates are satisfied.
However, in all the fun and excitement of the season, we Christians must not lose sight of the Spirit of Christmas. It is His advent we celebrate. The Son of the living God came to earth to dwell among humanity. The promise to rid humanity of its sin problem was fulfilled by an innocent baby born in a dirty, old manger. Then, thirty-some years later, this same man dying on an old rugged cross and rising again is the radiance of Christmas. It is looking down on a manger, looking up to a cross, and finding an empty tomb, that we are able to behold the message in Isaiah 9.6. It is the splendor and simplicity of God, for it is us, whom this child was born, and for us, whom this Son was given. When we recognize this Child as His Son, we are then able to envision the glory of God and capture the essence of the rest of what Isaiah said, “He shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace.” Oh, the Christmas spirit began with a baby, a gift wrapped in a blanket of love. Therefore, we must see God for who He is and grasp His sovereignty. He is a God who keeps His promises. He is a God capable of giving rest and peace in times of chaos. He is a God who gives the best of Himself, Jesus.
Christian, the Spirit of Christmas lives today in us. For that reason, it is up to us to keep the Spirit of Christmas alive. We are to reveal to the world the Spirit of Christmas throughout the entire year. If Christ lives in our hearts, than we have experienced His love, His joy, His peace, His patience, His goodness, His kindness, His faithfulness, His gentleness, and His self-control. These virtues become part of who we are! Therefore, don’t forget the real meaning of Christmas, to love as He loves, to give as He gives, to share as He shares, for this is the Spirit of Christmas. We have an opportunity to begin the Christmas season right, to be a star, a star of Bethlehem, and lead people to the Christ child, the Savior, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Shine Brightly with His love for His Spirit lives in us.
Merry Christmas,
Pam Sauer
