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.”
— Luke 2:10-11
A television interviewer was walking the streets of Tokyo at Christmastime. Much like America, Christmas shopping is a big commercial success in Japan. So shoppers filled the streets on this particular afternoon.
The interviewer stopped one young woman on the sidewalk, and said, “Excuse me, ma’am. What is the meaning of Christmas?” Laughing, she responded, “I don’t know. Is that the day that Jesus died?”
The reality is that there was some truth in her answer. For many, the Christmas season would be about as significant to them as if Jesus were out of the equation altogether. They love the secular aspects of the season, but they completely miss the real reason for Christmas – Jesus Christ!
So what about you? How does Jesus make Christmas different for you than for the rest of the world who doesn’t know Christ? Christmas is much more than presents and lights for those who are in Christ. It commemorates the day heaven came to earth, God became a man, and He began a life that would be given to rescue us from our sins.
This Christmas, let Jesus make all the difference. Give thanks for the gift of His life, and commit yourself anew to following Him!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to show you where you’ve left Jesus out of Christmas this year and help you remember the real reason for the season.
Questions for Thought
Why do you think it’s so easy for people to leave Christ out of Christmas?
How might a good time of reflection on the birth of Christ make a difference in your life year round?