So, Thanksgiving is over and the Christmas season is now upon us. A lot of us will be running to the stores today for those great Black Friday deals. We’ll be listening to Christmas music and spending the next 28 days trying to find gifts for our loved ones and friends. Now, there’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, I’ve already started myself. I’ve already bought my girlfriend something for Christmas and will have stuff for my family before too long. That said, I want to leave you with something to remember as you get started today, or whenever you plan on starting.
I want to remind you of the true Christmas story. No, not the one with Ralphie shooting his eye out with his Red Ryder BB gun. I’m talking about the one where Jesus Christ was sent to this world to die for our sins. I want everyone to remember that the true reason we should celebrate this season is because God loved us so much that He sent His son to die for us on the cross so that we could live eternally in Heaven. It’s not about the presents. It’s about a loving God and His son who love us so much to give us the opportunity to be forgiven of our sins and to live in Heaven.
Luke 2:8-14 says this:
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
This is what it’s all about. This was the start of it. The birth of Christ has given us a chance to have our lives changed through Him.
1 John 4:9 says:
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.
Yes. This is the true meaning of Christmas. As you shop today, tomorrow, and up until Christmas day, keep this in mind. Thanksgiving may be over, but this is definitely something to be thankful for every single day.
If you want to hear more about the true Christmas story, come to Foundations Church (5840 S. Hudson) this Sunday, or tune in live at www.fctulsa.tv. This will be something you definitely don’t want to miss.
As always, be blessed!
Chris
