The Christmas season always brings a flood of memories along with it, memories of family gatherings, hot chocolate, snooping for presents with my big brother, and of course, lots of cookies for Santa. However, over the last few weeks, I’ve noticed that many families and many children will build their own memories similar to these. Children will sneak into Mom and Dad’s room, looking for presents. Mom’s and Grandma’s will don their trusty aprons to bring a feast to their families. However, I’ve come to see firsthand a very sobering thought I’ve known for many years. Many of these families, families I have come to know and love over the past year, will make fun and lasting memories to reminisce over in the years to come. Yet, amidst the presents, hot chocolate, and letters to Santa, something is missing.
Christ.
Too often, amidst the hustle of finding the perfect gifts for our own loved ones, we often forget the myriads of families all around us who completely miss the celebration of Christmas. Yes, they have presents, a beautiful tree, and lots of fun memories to make, but they don’t have Christ. They don’t know or realize the weight and importance of celebration in worshipping this King. Thousands of children will awaken tomorrow with excitement bursting from their eyes as they drag Mom and Dad out of bed to open presents. But, they will not celebrate Christmas.
The incarnation of the almighty, holy, and powerful God is something we take far too lightly. I know this, because too many families would cease to celebrate Christmas if the tree disappeared, the scrumptious holiday smells turned into cold, leftover pizza, or if no family came to surround them with love and appreciation. Now, we see more of the Christmas Joseph, Mary, and the shepards experienced. No tree. No twinkling lights. No holiday treats. No support from family. Just the odor of animals, the scratch of hay, and the exhaustion of a long and grueling journey.
Here, we find rejoicing, celebration, and worship. Here we find the Savior and the hope of the gospel, the hope for you, and the hope of the myriads of family who won’t truly celebrate Christmas tomorrow. Here we find the incarnate Christ, born as a babe in order to live a sinless life and to take on the full wrath of God for the sin of me and of you. No matter what decorations, family, or presents are opened tomorrow, I pray that you truly celebrate and worship the Incarnate King and that you share His gift with others!
Merry Christmas!
