I wrote this a few weeks ago hoping to get it published in the Arizona Republic in time for Christmas. No such luck, not that its a surprise. I wasn't terribly optimistic since it was probably uncomfortably religious-minded for that medium, but it was something I felt needed to be said. Since it didn't make it there, I figure I will post it here. Here goes:
The Christmas tree and lights have been up a few weeks now. Gifts have been bought and wrapped. On the radio and TV are songs and movies extolling the “Christmas Spirit.” All the preparations are made, and yet something seems missing.
In all of the hustle and bustle of the holidays I rarely hear about Christ.
Movies talk about “Christmas Spirit”, giving, charity, family time, about it being more blessed to give than to receive. All of these seem to suggest that Christmas is about what man has done for mankind. And yet we read the news and are reminded on a daily basis of man’s failings.
Christmas is not about giving but receiving. Christmas is about an Almighty God choosing of his own accord to come down in weakness and humility, so that He could one day lay down his life as a ransom for us all. It is about receiving God’s grace, though we don’t deserve it. It is about Immanuel, God With Us.
This Christmas it is my prayer that we will remember that. All of the other elements of the “Christmas Spirit” are man’s reaction to receiving this grace. Merry Christmas.
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