The Story/Spirit of CHRISTmas...

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" Luke 2:1-14 NKJV

CHRISTmas is almost upon us. With that comes tremendous commercialism, an outright perversion of the true meaning of the holiday. CHRISTmas isn't just about giving and receiving gifts as the department stores would have you believe. It is a time to reflect on GOD's love for mankind, a love that would cause Him to send His one and only Son into the world to redeem our fallen race.

That being said, I believe the Spirit of CHRISTmas is best reflected in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life". In that single verse lies the meaning of GOD's love. A love that warranted the sacrifice of His Son in order to provide the atonement for our sins.

Jesus offered Himself--no one took His life, He willingly gave it. He left the glory and splendor of Heaven, came as a helpless baby, lived a sinless life, and surrendered Himself to the Will of the Father to the point of a cruel death on the cross. This was His mission--from the time of His birth, each step took Him closer to the cross.

As a father, I cannot imagine loving anyone so much that I would willingly sacrifice my child to save them--yet, GOD did. As mankind strayed farther and farther away from His Commandments and became increasingly vile, He loved us enough to give His very best--JESUS! Now, that is love!

As you make preparations for your holiday festivities, remember to make room for CHRIST in your CHRISTmas. He is after all, the real reason for the season...

Merry CHRISTmas!

Blessings!
Tony