CHRISTmas What Does It Mean?
To most of us when young it meant presents and excitement with much to enjoy. Some folks never outgrow this feeling and to some extent this is nice. But what should CHRISTmas mean to those old enough to give thought to others? How can we put Christ back in the season?
Although our country America was founded on Christian beliefs and principles, today’s society seems to be doing everything possible to move us further away from Christ. This is happening in schools, public affairs and buildings, and in government itself. Much of the media is ignoring or perverting any Christian ideas that surface. And Christians, even caring Christians appear to just stand by and let it happen.
Although an individual may not be able to change this, there are things we can do. We can celebrate and proclaim the grace of God that caused Him to come down to the world in person. This unique event accomplished several things. First it let us see what God is like. The earlier Scriptures painted many pictures of God but to many this was of a stern and unyielding God. Careful study and thought gives a true picture of a loving God who did so much for His faithful people.
Jesus coming to earth to live as a man showed the world God’s true nature. To many especially His followers He was like no one else. They ultimately learned that Jesus has unlimited power, He can do anything He chooses to do. He loves all creatures, and only wants the best for them. In the end the disciples learned that He did not come as a conqueror then but to bring salvation to all who choose to follow Him. Jesus is ‘God in flesh appearing”. He came for all the world including you and me.
I admit that Jesus meant little to me through most of my life; but when I finally recognized Him as my Lord and Master, my whole life changed. Not at once but by reading the Bible daily and talking to faithful followers of Jesus, I strived to shape myself as much as possible in Jesus’ image. It feels good when something I am doing feels closer to His than it ever was before. Once I absorbed the wonderful feeling and benefit of being His as much as possible, I became driven to pass this knowledge on to others. That is why I began writing spiritual articles and disseminating them as widely as possible. Also distribution of material about Christ and Heaven is supported. Others are doing more, but I do what I am led by the Holy Spirit to do and what is within my capabilities.
Now we can use the wonderful Christmas Season to spread His message even more. This is an evangelistic opportunity that happens only at this time of year and to lesser extent at Easter. Instead of frivolous Christmas cards, they can contain meaningful messages of faith and love. We can subtly share the Gospel at this time. Let us tell others what Christ means to us and how He has been a wonderful help and comfort.
Christianity in America will not survive in any viable or sustainable manner is a message voiced in the secular society, the non-believers. I believe it is alive and well, but needs support from all who want it to live. Is it fear of change that causes people to avoid belief in Christ? If it is they should realize that the birth of a baby, or a town whose dark streets shine the everlasting light, is not threatening. Those who have embraced Jesus as their Lord and Savior know nothing to fear and a world of wonderful relations with our precious Savior. So don’t be afraid to use Christmas to tell others about His birth and resurrection and what a wonderful blessing it is to know Christ.