What Christmas Means

Friday, December 24th, 2010

Today's Passage: Luke 2
Memory Verse: Isaiah 9:6 

If you were to take a survey of all the people you meet on what Christmas means, they would all have different things to say.  For some, it may be the lights, tree, and beautiful decorations they get to put up for this festive season.  For others, it might be the symbols of Christmas that everyone can embrace no matter what religious background they have: Santa, the gifts, and traditions they observe.

But for those of us who believe, CHRISTMAS has a whole new meaning.  The "C" is of course for our Savior, Christ the Lord Himself, Who left His home above to come and live among us so that He could show us how to live and love.  The "H" is for the herald angels who told everyday people of His birth.  "R" is for the righteousness that we would inherit through His birth, death, and resurrection.

The "I" would represent the Inn, of course, where Jesus was born.  Did you ever wonder why God chose for His Son to come in all obscurity, not even important enough to be born in a regular room?  Because God wanted to use the foolish things of this world to shame the wise.    The "S" is for Son of God-- the first fruit among many brethren, the One Who went before us so He could produce everything God was in us.  And the "T" represents the totality of what He did for us-- everything from justification to redemption, if we will only accept it.

The "M" stands for the one symbol you never hear too much about, but is most important: Mary, the one chosen to be Jesus' mother.  She was not perfect, but she was willing to do the will of the Father, no matter how hard it might be.  The "A" is for ALL-- He came for Anyone who will accept the sacrifice He came to make.  And finally, the "S" represents Savior" -- He's not just a good man who lived, but The One Who came to do what no-one else could possibly do: save us from all sin.

As you celebrate this special day, let these things make Christmas special for you and your family.  Merry CHRISTmas to all!

Prayer: Father, I will never stop thanking You for the wonderful gift of Jesus.  Had He not come, my soul would be lost.  May my life bring You joy for the rest of my days.  Happy Birthday, Jesus!  Amen.