Christmas. What's it all about?

 

Someone said that if you ask ten people to describe Christmas, you will receive eleven different answers. It seems that Christmas has become what each person wants it to be. To one it is therapeutic, another describes it mainly in religious terms while still another bypasses religion altogether.

So, what is Christmas? How would you describe Christmas?

One Facebook reader said it was all about family and warm feelings.
Another reader said, "Santa Claus, that's what Christmas is all about."
Still another reader said, "Christmas is all about spending time at home, decorating a tree and generally enjoying 'me' time."

While all of these descriptions have some validity in describing Christmas, the main element is missing. We talk about Christmas in terms of spending time with family, belief in Santa, and just stopping for some 'me' time. If this is all that Christmas means, it seems that something is still lacking in our Christmas celebration.

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12

The true meaning of Christmas lies in the old, old story of Jesus and His birth. In a literal sense, God came down from Heaven for you and me.


Linus, Charlie Brown's friend, recited this same story and upon finishing said, "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

Isn’t it amazing to view the simplicity of this story?  It's all about Jesus!

While Santa, family, and ‘me time’ are nice and even important, they are not the whole story. Jesus’ birth is the beginning and foundation of Christmas.

Jesus…the name above all names.

Jesus…the baby born in Bethlehem,

and

Jesus…God becoming human for you and me.

Jesus! That’s what Christmas is all about.

Ken

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