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“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)

“Christmas comes but once a year, but when it comes it brings good cheer” reveals my Google search when digging for descriptors of Christmas.  This 19^th century nursery rhyme delighted children, no doubt, who anticipated a candy stick and home-made toy to mark the celebration.  In the same Google search, another site identifies that 45% of North Americans who were surveyed dread the holiday season.  Less than two centuries later, as we count down to Christmas, our anxiety increases while our bank balances decrease.  The complexities of the season mask the simple gift presented to the world in Bethlehem.

Angels heralded the arrival of Jesus.  The shepherds gathered to welcome the Lamb of God.  Gifts of one’s heart were given.  Word spread to all and all were amazed; including King Herod, the chief priests and teachers of the law.  Theologians speculate the Magi bearing gifts of gold, incense and myrrh did not present themselves to Jesus until he was two years of age.  Gifts given as a symbol of submission from earth’s royalty to the King of all kings.  And we focus on the tangible gifts.

In this world that highlights the bling regardless of the cost to the soul, may I focus on submission and not the tangible.  May I be thankful for that which draws my attention to the miraculous in Christmas and decidedly steadfast on the Savior and what He came to bring.  Jesus, the fulfillment of Old Testament law and prophesy, able to save me from my sins, restore my soul from destruction, giving life its purpose and power through the Holy Spirit.  All of these availed through my acceptance of Jesus’ gift; Himself.

During this Christmas season, may we come together with those from far and wide and herald Jesus’ arrival.  With the millions of saints that have gone before us, may we, in loud voices declare, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord!  Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” (Luke 19:38). May our evaluation as to whether this was a good Christmas be that at its conclusion there would be more of Jesus evidenced in us and less of the ways of the world.  With this good news, I venture to say that our resulting great joy would leave us anticipating next year’s Christmas.

“Jesus, forgive us when our focus at Christmas becomes things rather than You.  Thank you for the gift of abundant life that you’ve given to us.  May we share that gift with others.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life