I Love Christmas

It's that time of year again. My house is decorated, the lights are up on the outside, and Christmas music is playing. There's a Christmas tree and Nativity scene in every room, the kids are working on a Christmas play, and we've already watched White Christmas, It's A Wonderful Life, Christmas In Connecticut, and Holiday Inn.
There's snow on the ground, the days are getting darker much earlier, and the smell of wood-burning fireplaces is in the air.

I love it.

But why do we get all excited about this season? Is it the presents? The food and fun with family and friends? Playing in the snow? Parties? Time off of school and work?

What about those people who don't like Christmas? There are many who have a hard time during this holiday season. Finances, loss of a loved one, or just plain ole bad memories. Depression runs rampant this time of year and many find it hard to go on.

Do you remember Charlie Brown's Christmas cartoon? Charlie is looking for the true meaning of Christmas. Everyone seems focused on the materialistic side of things, and Charlie Brown picks out a devastatingly ugly and skimpy tree. But Linus, ever the tried and true friend, comes out and quotes Luke chapter two and tells Charlie Brown that's what it's all about. While everyone still doesn't quite grasp it, Charlie Brown hears the words resound in his head.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

I love Christmas. But why do I love it? I love it because it's the celebration of the greatest gift ever given. Jesus came as a baby and lived a sinless life. He lived and He worked and He gave of Himself. He taught and He healed and He loved the unlovable. He came to sacrifice Himself for us so that we might have life - eternal life. The reason for the season.

So, it doesn't matter if you have zero Christmas trees or twelve Christmas trees. It doesn't matter if you have gifts, or lights, or parties to go to. What matters is what is in your heart. Have you accepted His gift?

Rejoice with me!
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."