THOUGHTS ABOUT CHRISTMAS

 

     The Christmas season is almost upon us, and a recent survey found that 74% of the respondents said that they feel better when they are preparing for Christmas.  This means that Christmas is better for your mental health.  In another survey some 76% of those surveyed found said that it was better to give than receive.  In fact, they enjoyed looking for gifts for others.  I think Ebenezer Scrooge said it best in the story of the Christmas Carol, he said, “It is the one time of the year when people open up their shut up hearts.” 

     Christmas of course it not about the tinsel, trees, light and carols.  It is the beginning of the greatest story ever told.  Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ.  He is the reason for the season.  We all love the story of Mary and Joseph having the baby in a stable.  Jesus being wrapped in swaddling cloths and placed in a manger.  How the angel of the Lord came to the shepherds while they were in the field announcing Jesus’ birth.  Then the shepherds go and see the baby and tell Mary and Joseph about what they had seen and heard.  Later on, they are visited by the wise men who had followed the star where Jesus was.  They give the child Jesus, their presents of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 

     We all have wonderful memories of growing up and enjoying the friendship, family, and hospitality which is Christmas.  We have four children, and our tradition was to watch the Grinch who stole Christmas on Christmas Eve and then see who could make the best Grinch face.  I never won but often my family told me that the face I made looked like I had constipation.  Sorry for that analogy to all our sensitive readers.  On Christmas morning we would read the story of Christ’s birth from the gospels of Matthew and Luke, then pray and open our gifts.  To me I wanted my family to know that Christmas was the beginning of the greatest story ever told.  It has always been my aim to keep Christ in Christmas.

     Which brings me to a couple of thoughts.  First, as you approach this holiday season remember it is about peace on earth and good will to all people.  Next, remember to share it with others.  There are many people who do not have the blessings we have.  I remember reading a caption on social media which stated, “Never complain about your life in Canada, there are billions around the world who would gladly take your place.”  So, at this time of year do something powerful and impactful to help others.  If you know someone who is alone at Christmas invite them to your house for dinner and friendship.  Volunteer for one of the many organizations that work to help others.  Salvation Army, Hope Mission, Mustard Seed, or the foodbank for example.  If your church has a hamper program or like my church, we every year provide meals through a special offering for Hope Mission.  Whatever it is, do it, for others.

     Christmas is a special time of year, and we can make it so much better when we remember that God gave us a gift.  His name was Jesus Christ and the reason he came was to mankind from our sins.  Jesus however did not stay a baby.  He grew up and became a man who gave His life so that we could have a relationship with God.  This is the essence, nature, and message of Christmas.  So do not get wrapped to much in the hub bub which is Christmas.  Take a moment and thank the Lord for the reason for the season and that is Jesus Christ because if you keep Him out of Christmas you have missed the whole point.  From my family to yours.  Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.