December 6, 2024

For The Love of Christmas

I know that many people think the Christmas season starts too early and is too focussed on the material, but I love it all. Every time I see a commercial selling Christmas gifts, I think of the perfect gift that God gave the world—His son, Jesus. I think of the gift of the little baby Jesus in the manger. I think about the gift of salvation. I think about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I think about the gifts of the Wise Men. I think about the gift of God’s love. I really love Christmas!

When I think of the cost of buying special gifts for those on my list—meaningful, appropriate, costly—I think about the price that Jesus paid on the cross. I think of the price God the Father paid giving the life of His precious Son as a ransom for mankind while we were still in our sinfulness. I think of the incredible price paid for my salvation. I really love Christmas!

Whenever I see a Christmas tree, the evergreen reminds me of God’s eternal love. The ornaments remind me of the fruit and gifts of the Holy Spirit. The lights remind me that Jesus is the light of the world. Christmas snow reminds me ‘though my sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow.’ Christmas snow also reminds me of purity, new beginnings and second chances. I really love Christmas.

When I think of children waiting for Christmas to come, I think of how God’s children are waiting for Jesus to return to make all things right. When I see the happiness on the faces of little children wild with anticipation and hope of the wonderful treasures that Christmas might bring, I remember personally receiving gifts from the Lord many times before and how my heart pounds as I watch and pray in anticipation of His arrival. I really love Christmas!

When I am tempted to lose heart in a world that has traded in Jesus for triviality, I remember that even our whimsical childhood Christmas fantasies can point us toward Jesus—a tale of a magical event where all good children are given gifts. It reminds me of the Holy Spirit, everywhere in the world at the same time, giving gifts, blessings, comfort and joy to anyone in the world who dares to believe. Yes, key word: Believe!

Even Christmas cards remind me of God’s greeting card to me… His Word, the Bible. I really love Christmas!

At Christmas:

I remember to have faith like a little child.

I remember it is better to give than to receive.

I remember that God has given me so many gifts and blessings.

I remember that, 'The greatest is love.'

I remember to care for my neighbor.

I remember to forgive those who have hurt me.

I remember to appreciate my wife, children and family.

I remember just how much I love Jesus Christ.

I remember how much I love the Church.

And I remember how much I love Jesus.

( ...and how much He loves me. )

Merry Christmas.

I pray you really shine this year!

-Robert Engelhardt