The true meaning of Christmas

What a great time of the year! Most folks are just a little happier. They
decorate their homes; they have more friends and family in to share meals
and fellowship. Most give gifts of some kind with someone. In general, it
is a happy if not joyous time of the year.

I realize of course that is not true for everyone, some folks are
overwhelmed by the season. The business, the gift buying, the traffic and
the expectations are somewhat nerve wracking.

What is the TRUE meaning of Christmas, or does it really have any meaning
other than a great big party to our world. I like what Charles Tucker has to
say about it. Notice below:

"This time of year we talk about "the True Meaning of Christmas." OK, I know
that Christmas isn't mentioned in the Bible; Jesus nowhere tells us to
observe His birthday. But the fact that Jesus was born into this world to
live among us as one of us is indeed at the very center of the gospel. It
was "when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman,
born under the law" (Galatians 4:4). We must believe that Jesus was born as
a real flesh and blood baby in order to accept that He gave His body and
shed His blood on the cross (1 John 1:1-2). Jesus became flesh and blood
like us in order to redeem us (Hebrews 2:14). Jesus was Immanuel, "God with
us." (Matthew 1:23). Because we connect this time of the year to the story
of the birth of Jesus, therein is really the 'True Meaning of Christmas.'"

I agree with Charles. If this season puts Jesus more in the forefront of
people's hearts and minds, then it does give a meaning to Christmas, which
is truer than any of our other World Holiday's.

No, Christmas isn't in the bible, but Paul tells us in Romans 14:4-6,"Who
are you to condemn someone else's servants? They are responsible to the
Lord, so let him judge whether they are right or wrong. And with the Lord's
help, they will do what is right and will receive his approval. In the same
way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think
every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day
you choose is acceptable. Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it
to honor him."(NLT)

So, Paul tells us that if we want to set aside special days to honor God,
then do it, but do it wisely. A day to honor God is not about giving gifts
or feasting with friends, it's about remembering our God and what he has
given us.

Russ Lawson