Pining for Christmas

I know Christmas for many starts earlier and earlier. I’ve been thinking about why? I have a suspicion that it has to do with joy, peace, and hope the season provides to so many hearts. (I am not speaking of retailers). We live in a world which has grown darker and darker. People are searching for a place of peace in this world of chaos, a place of hope.

Christmas reminds us of times which seemed a little less dark. The lights and music give much joy to the heart. It is fun to listen to the silly songs of ole. However, it brings much joy to hear the songs which speak of the glory of Christ. It provides a joy which is unspeakable. There is nothing like being in the presence of the Almighty and many Christmas songs usher Him in. Christmas is a time to worship Christ!

There is more to Christmas than presents. The season brings hope because Christ came in a dark time. Christmas is joy, peace, and hope because he came as a baby. I have grandkids now, and my, they bring such joy to my heart. However, nothing is like celebrating the advent of Christ, and realizing the plan of salvation and hope which began with Christmas.

Therefore, do not become upset with those who seem to be in a hurry for Christmas. Let’s show grace, and pray God uses His Advent celebration to speak to the masses. Christmas provides more than this world can offer or give. Christmas gave us Christ, who is the reason for Christmas! Actually, I believe people are pining for Christ! Use the season to share what people desire most, hope which is Christ!

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Luke 2.14

“ This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about : His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.” Matthew 1.18-25.