Celebrating Christ

Are you making room for Christ in Christmas this year? Don’t think I am not asking myself this very question. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle of the holidays and lose sight of the real “Reason for the Season.”

Each year, our family meets in New York the week before Christmas to enjoy the festivities and lights of the city. Bundling up for freezing temps and mingling among the crowds and craziness can be a nuisance to some. For us, the excitement and crowds are energizing and fun – at least for a few days.

As we walk along crowded streets, jump in and out of cabs or work our way through the subway maze to catch the right train, it’s easy to get caught up in activities. And, when we’re caught up in activities, it’s easy to forget Christ’s birth is very reason for this very season.

This week may be filled with fun, food and frenzy for you too. Or, it may be especially stressful or depressing as a result of the pressures that often arise. The pressure to try to get just the right gifts, prepare all the right meals, and get to all the right places – on time and with a smile on our faces.

No matter what you may be feeling this time of year, God wants you to remember He sent His one and only son to earth for you. He sent Jesus to save you from sin and reunite you to a close personal relationship with Him.  He is the creator of everything we see, our God and our good, good Father (Matthew 1:21; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Now is a perfect time to STOP and analyze where you are placing your focus this year. Are you focusing on God’s ultimate gift, Jesus Christ? Without which, we would have no hope, no direction, and certainly no Christmas celebration.

Be sure to take time this week to set aside the worry of gifts, food, stress, and busyness, and find ways to celebrate Jesus. Consider gathering the family together for a reading of the Christmas story in Luke 2 and take the time to discuss the real gift, the gift God gave us through the birth of His son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:15 (NASB)

Is Christ the center of your Christmas this year?

Praying you and your family have a safe and Very Merry Christmas!

“For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior,

who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11 (NASB)