What a great time of the year! Most folks are just a little
happier. They decorate their homes; they have more friends and family in to
share meals and fellowship. Most give gifts of some kind with someone. In general, it is a happy if not joyous time
of the year.
I realize of course that is not true for everyone, some
folks are overwhelmed by the season. The business, the gift buying, the traffic
and the expectations are somewhat nerve wracking.
What is the TRUE meaning of Christmas, or does it really
have any meaning other than a great big party to our world. I like what Charles
Tucker has to say about it. Notice below:
"This time of year we talk about “the True Meaning of
Christmas.” OK, I know that Christmas isn’t mentioned in the Bible; Jesus
nowhere tells us to observe His birthday. But the fact that Jesus was born into
this world to live among us as one of us is indeed at the very center of the
gospel. It was “when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman,
born under the law” (Galatians 4:4). We must believe that Jesus was
born as a real flesh and blood baby in order to accept that He gave His body
and shed His blood on the cross (1 John 1:1-2). Jesus became flesh and blood
like us in order to redeem us (Hebrews 2:14). Jesus was Immanuel, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:23).
Because we connect this time of the year to the story of the birth of Jesus,
therein is really the 'True Meaning of Christmas.'"
I agree with Charles. If this season puts Jesus more in the
forefront of people's hearts and minds, then it does give a meaning to
Christmas, which is truer than any of our other World Holiday's.
No, Christmas isn't in the bible, but Paul tells us in Romans 14:4-6,"Who
are you to condemn someone else’s servants? They are responsible to the Lord,
so let him judge whether they are right or wrong. And with the Lord’s help,
they will do what is right and will receive his approval. In the same way, some
think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is
alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is
acceptable. Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honor him."(NLT)
So, Paul tells us that if we want to set aside special days
to honor God, then do it, but do it wisely. A day to honor God is not about
giving gifts or feasting with friends, it's about remembering our God and what
he has given us.
Russ Lawson – Messages From The Heart
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