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“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” Philippians 1:18

You’ve no doubt heard them by now—probably nearly everywhere you go. Christmas Carols. And it’s not even Thanksgiving yet! In fact, as stores removed their Halloween décor, it was briskly replaced by shelves filled with Christmas ornaments and bright wrapping paper. It seems that “’tis the season” expands annually.

The other day I popped into a store, laser-focused on what I needed to find. I was zigzagging through the aisles when the not-so-subtle background of Holiday classics broke through my concentration. Shaking my head, I shot a text to my husband to share my frustration.

But then, it hit me anew as it (eventually does) each year: Whether the store managers or shoppers believe it, Christmas is all about Jesus Christ. And with every utterance of “Merry Christmas” or background carol that sings of His birth in a manger, Jesus is being proclaimed.

It brings to mind what the Apostle Paul told the church in Philippi when writing to them about teachers among them who were preaching Christ for selfish ambition or to stir up trouble. Did Paul get angry or frustrated by that? No, he rejoiced because the Gospel was being spread!

Is it “selfish ambition” for stores to pipe in carols for two months prior to December 25? Sure! It pushes their biggest revenue season of the year! But the message of that marketing music proclaims that Emmanuel—God with us—was born to deliver us. Each card, every ribbon and bow, all the twinkling trees peeking out of neighborhood windows…regardless of motivation or even recognition, Jesus Christ is being declared.

So, let’s shift our perspective this Christmas season. Let’s rejoice at every carol—even sing along in praise. Better yet, let’s take this seasonal opportunity to share with others why we are rejoicing. Let’s tell them why—and how—they too can celebrate the hope and peace available because that Baby was born in a manger.

“Lord, in a culture that has commercialized the celebration of Emmanuel, help us to rejoice and use this season to spread the Truth of Jesus Christ.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life