Christmas has inspired many authors to write about its spirit and significance. The spirit that embodies forgiveness, friendship, unselfish love and generosity. Sadly, today, it has become far too commercialized.
At the Advent, the angels sang, “Luke 2:10-14 “Do not be afraid, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people… .the angels praising God, saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” The story of Christmas is one of God’s grace extended to a lost world and forgiveness made available to anyone who wants it!
More than at any other time, Christmas is the season which brings to our minds the true meaning of sacrifice. Jesus left the magnificence of His heavenly home to come to our tiny planet so that, in due time, we could spend eternity with Him. But that was only the beginning of His salvation journey here on earth.
His life of toil ended with an even greater sacrifice - that of His death on the cross of Calvary. We must not forget that the Christmas story involves both the cradle and the cross. And more than that - because He came the first time, He has promised that He will return again.
Unlike His first Advent when only a few shepherds heard the announcement, the whole world will know when Jesus returns accompanied by a multitude of shining angels.
Paraphrasing Max Lucado: Where will God go to touch your heart? What a great question! It’s that time of year when we hear about the virgin birth. It’s a story of just how close Christ will come to you!
The first stop on His itinerary was a womb. Where will God go to touch the world? “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Christ will be revealed by your speech, in your actions and decisions. Every place you live will be a Bethlehem. And every day you live will be Christmas. Deliver Christ to the world!
Ellen White wrote:- “ What matchless love Jesus has manifested for a fallen world! If angels sang because the Saviour was born in Bethlehem, shall not our hearts echo the glad strain, Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, good will to men? We do not know the exact day of Christ’s birth. Let us teach how Jesus came into the world to bring hope, comfort, peace, and happiness to all… . Let the hearts of all respond with exceeding joy for the priceless gift of the Son of God.”
Look past the tinsel and glitter of Christmas this year. Invite Jesus into your heart. He is still the true reason for the season we are about to celebrate.