Thursday, December 15, 2005

The Many Faces of Christmas


How many are there? For me, I only know of one which is the blessed celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Oh, I know. There is also Santa Claus. But, what is behind Santa Claus? Do we celebrate Christmas because Santa brings gifts? Is that really a celebration worthy of the time spent shopping, wrapping, driving and standing in line?

Santa represents a giving spirit that was in a man centuries ago. It is a remembrance of a man (now dead) who gave presents to the needy. Is that really what we do when we give gifts to each other? Where are are hearts for the needy? Where are we taking the time to even notice the needy?

It is because we are mere mortals, who cannot save even ourselves. We cannot save others because we lack the ability. Sure, we can offer a short term solution to this one and that one, but can we really change their lives so much that they turn away from the life that leads them downward to a life of misery?

The true celebration of Christmas is the deliverance of humankind by God. Peace with God that was accomplished through the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Without this reconciliation, man is doomed to be bound in the chains of our sins.

It is this Christmas, this Jesus, this celebration that gives us the reason for the season.

Jesus, the Name above every name and greatly to be praised. Praise Him this Christmas and every Christmas after until He returns and hope becomes unnecessary, for we shall see Him face to face.

Amen and Merry Christmas in Jesus Name!!!!!!!