What’s the Point of Christmas?
Only 3 shopping days left ’til Christmas! Ready or not, here it comes! I love Christmas for so many reasons, not the least of which is getting and giving great gifts. Growing up, I received some awesome gifts on Christmas morning; from AFX Racetracks to Hot Wheels to Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Christmas morning was magical for me as a child.
There’s no doubt that Christmas is a huge celebration at any age. Let’s face it, there is nothing in life that we build up to more than Christmas; it started well over a month ago for most of us! Why do we celebrate Christmas? Why do we give gifts at Christmas? Why do we light up our houses and trees? What’s the point?
No doubt, sometimes the Christmas season can create stress and anxiety for us; it can cause us to lament losses and conjure heartache; it can seem overblown and overwhelming. But that’s not the way God intended it! Christmas is a time to celebrate… it is a time for great joy! And when you focus on the meaning that Jesus offers our lives, you can’t help but celebrate! 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. John 1:4
In addition to offering us meaning in life… we have so many reasons to celebrate. Here are Four Reasons to Celebrate Christmas….
1. We celebrate Christmas because it is “Good News!” (Luke 2:8-11)
We celebrate Christmas because it is good news for you and me! And good news always brings great joy! If you got the good news that you will be getting a nice raise or bonus in the new year, you would be thrilled! We love good news! Christmas is all about the greatest news you will ever hear… In Jesus we have our Savior!
2. We celebrate Christmas because God has given us a Savior! (Luke 2:11; Matthew 1:21)
Jesus’ name literally means “God saves”. He saves us from the sin that plagues us. The truth is, we needed a Savior and God had promised to send one. Jesus was also called Immanuel, which means “God with us.” Jesus is God with us Who saves us! What an amazing gift for all who believe!
3. We celebrate Christmas because of the “indescribable gift.”
15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15
Gift giving is a huge part of our Christmas celebration and of course, it is born out of God’s great, “indescribable gift” to us! When the Apostle Paul penned those words, they came at the end of powerful teaching on sowing and reaping (2 Cor. 9:6ff). At Christmastime, generosity and giving is on on our hearts and minds, and for good reason! So look for opportunities to give during this season and beyond as a way to share with others about God’s wonderful, “indescribable gift” for us!
4. We celebrate Christmas because the Light of the World has filled our darkness!
2 The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:2
We love to light up our houses at Christmas! Maybe you light up yours like Clark Griswold. More power to you! We string up lights on our homes and trees and light candles at Christmas to celebrate the wonderful truth that Jesus fills our darkness; He brings light and life to our lives!
For much more, click here to watch: True Story: Unwrapping the Truth About Christmas Part 4 - Christmas is for you!
