That was the situation a few days ago. However, this time it caused me to stop when I realized the song in my head was asking a question. The question?? “Where are You Christmas?” I woke right up because it startled me when I realized I was unconsciously allowing myself to lose sight of, or forget, what Christmas is about. What are the reasons Christmas was hard to find in my life? Probably some of the same things you have going on right now in your own life. Could it be… getting the perfect, and most beautiful tree up and trimmed; lights strung on the house; addressing those Christmas cards; shopping and wrapping; menu planning; baking Christmas cookies; attending Christmas functions; and the pressure of not forgetting anyone on the gift and card list. Any of this sound familiar?
My friends, while all of those things are nice, they have nothing to do with where our hearts should really be at Christmas, and in fact, all year long. The question is, have we left room in our hearts for Jesus? Who or what has crowded Him out? Close your eyes and pretend you could be an observer of that life-changing, for us, night; the night of our Savior’s birth. What would you see or hear?
The night was still and shepherds were tending their sheep like any other night. Most likely watching from a hill. “Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.” Can you see them hovering over you in the sky, and hear the angelic voices praising and singing the message of GREAT JOY! I see myself frozen, first with fear, then falling to the ground in worship when I remembered the words of the prophets of old proclaiming a Savior would be born in Bethlehem. HE HAD ARRIVED. Love was born and came down. Picture the awe and joy the shepherds obviously had, as their first response was to find the Babe. They left right away and followed the guiding star. I see myself running to find the promised Messiah.
Where did my Christmas go? Covered up with good things and traditions. The fulfillment of prophecy, the wonder of the incarnation, the knowledge that the world had changed forever, my sins are forgiven, the death and resurrection and promise of HIS return, were pushed to the back of my mind. Stress, planning, and anxiety found the front of my mind and heart, and there certainly is no joy in any of that! However…there is, or should be, indescribable joy, a position of humility, and an overwhelming desire to tell others, when I celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. In the world we live in today, people are searching for hope. The Christmas message we are charged to share with others brings peace and contentment and you and I can bring that to others! Knowing God has chosen to use us as messengers of His promise of eternal life with Him for those who hear and believe is the epitome of joy. We can bring “The Light of the World” to our loved ones, friends, and those in our sphere of life every day. Is this not more exciting and awesome than the laundry list of “to-do’s?” The joy of seeing the faces of someone who comes to faith, the faces of our children, grandchildren, and extended family when they hear and accept the gospel is what Christmas should be in our lives.
As Dr. David Jeremiah said, “More than any other time of the year the Christmas season is a time for renewal, reminders, and reflection on what Jesus did—leaving the glories of heaven being born in a stable, and living a perfect life on our behalf. It is a time for rejoicing in the Church, for acts of generosity and service, and for sharing with others the true reason for Christmas.”
Have you lost Christmas? Can others see the Savior in your life? Do you forget to share the gospel? Is there room in your heart for God to write His story? I am not throwing away all the traditions our family has created over the years, however, I am trying to be more intentional in celebrating the true Christmas each day. Quoting Dr. Jeremiah again, “Lord, all I am and all I have is Yours. I’m prepared to be Your faithful trusting child.” Won’t you join me in praying these words this season?
Merry Christmas and His blessing to you all! 😊
Joy to the World, the Lord has come.
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing.