I find it difficult to hold on to the “true meaning” of Christmas. Christ’s appearance on the earth, after all, (Immanuel/God is with us – Isaiah 9 and 12) set into motion things planned before the world was birthed. It is a miscalculation to relegate God’s Son Jesus to the role as founder of a 2,000 year old religion.
Here are a few thing which help me to stay focused on what is important regarding the Coming of His Holy One:
#1 When I give gifts, I try to be careful to give them in love and in Jesus Name – not out of obligation.
#2 I focus on the essence of the one receiving my gifts, and pray for their journey of faith.
#3 I read the “Christmas Story” in Luke 1 and 2, and when I have time I read Isaiah the prophet. He talked specifically about Jesus 500-600 years before He came to earth.
Most of all, I try to reflect upon the richness of my connection with God, pray for my family and friends, and count the many ways I have been blessed by my Savior.
When the kids were small I wrote a song about Christmas. One of the verses went something like this:
“Looked into my bank account today, all I have just melts away. Seems like life can be so cruel and mean. Seems like all we ever spent – goes for food and bills and rent – Just another Christmas, Just another Christmas. Just another Christmas in my life.
“Put up the Christmas tree – given by good friends you see. Children are so happy – it’s so beautiful. As we crown it with a star – reminds us of who we are. And the time God came so far to men.
“Put the Christ in Christmas – remember God is with us. Put the Christ of Christmas in your life.”
God is with us, my friend! Hallelujah!
