Christmas trees, cookie exchange parties, office parties, gift wrapping, and last minute Hobby Lobby runs.
Christmas is my favorite holiday of the entire year! I love the way it reminds me about God’s gift of His son Jesus with every manger scene and “Joy to the world!” that I come across.
I agree with many of you that Christmas has become so commercialized that sometimes it’s hard not to be distracted by all the busy festivities that come along with it. The true meaning of Christmas gets a little lost in the bustle. I know that I often think more about which gifts I still need to purchase than about taking the time to reflect on the gift of Jesus Christ.
Even so, I do my best to see Jesus in every aspect of my celebration. As I wrap my gifts, I think about how Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes in the manger. And as Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross, it was the most important and meaningful gift anyone could possibly give. It was the gift that enabled us to have eternal life if we believe in Him.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.” ~Isaiah 9:6-7
As I bake my cookies, I think about how sweet life is because of Jesus. He is my comforter, my healer, and my rock. Because of Him, I know my sins are forgiven and that He will be my friend and Savior throughout this entire life.
“Eat honey, my son, for it is good, and the honeycomb is sweet to your taste. Know that wisdom is sweet for your soul. If you find it, there is a future for you, and your hope will never be cut off.” ~Proverbs 24:13-14
When we drive past houses decorated with Christmas lights, it reminds me that Jesus is the light of the world. He brings light in the darkness and hope to the hopeless. Jesus is light, and there is no light apart from Him.
“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” ~John 1:4-5
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” ~John 8:12
As my wall fills up with sweet Christmas cards (and as I spend hours stuffing my own), I’m reminded of the Good News shared by the angels, the shepherds, and by Jesus himself! Even today, we’re all called to share the news of Jesus with everyone around us.
The Bible tells us all about the story of Jesus. From Genesis to Revelation, it’s the best kind of Christmas letter we could ever get. News about family and friends is fun to get every year, but the best news ever came because of a little baby in Bethlehem.
“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'” ~Mark 16:15
As we celebrate this truly special season together, we’d like to wish you and your family a beautiful and wonderful Christmas! Merry Christmas!
*hugs*
Amber
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