It seems apparent that contemporary minds are content to turn Christmas, and all of the holidays (holy-days), into feeding frenzies for the appetites of the flesh, or occasions to flatter themselves and their constituents with imaginative self-worth. But it is not compulsory that you or I conform. It is perfectly acceptable for us to maintain the perspective of those in whose minds these celebrations were established.
Both the word Christmas, and the season, begin with Christ. Someone aptly stated, “He is the reason for the season.” Consider how it all began in the mind of God, who, because of His great love, purposed to send His own Son to purchase a pardon for sinful men, at the cost of His own life’s blood. Without the forgiveness that He offers, no one would ever be worthy to stand in the presence of Holy God—all would be destined to a devil’s hell.
Just before that first Christmas, Jesus, the eternal Son of God, left the splendors of Heaven to inhabit the body of a babe and to be born of a Jewish virgin named Mary. The seed of a man was supernaturally placed in her womb by the Spirit of God. The birth of Jesus Christ, the “God Man,” is the sole reason for our celebration of Christmas.
After 33 years of sinless perfection, Jesus was executed by Roman soldiers at the bidding of their governor, who played puppet to a group of self-serving hypocrites pretending to be instructed by God. Nevertheless, He was the only sacrifice sufficient to pay the price of forgiveness. He was buried, and rose again on the third day, which assures us of His sufficiency, God’s acceptance of His sacrifice, and His power to forgive.
Those who will place their trust in Jesus for forgiveness of sin will be placed in good standing before God and are assured an eternal home in His presence. Jesus, and the forgiveness He offers, is God’s gift to you this Christmas season, but like any gift, you must be willing to receive it. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (John 1:12)”