Putting the 'Christ' back into 'Christmas'

What is Christmas?

Everyone knows that the traditional Christmas holiday revolves around the story of the Baby Jesus who was born in a manger in Bethlehem so many years ago. But not everyone knows the significance of this historical event. We generally think of malls, gift-wrapping, and festive Christmas trees.

Christmas time, as celebrated by most, is a time of family dinners, the shopping for and giving and receiving of gifts. Both giving and receiving gifts, as you can all attest to, are immensely enjoyable. Those of us who secretly enjoy receiving gifts a teeny bit more than giving gifts know that receiving a gift costs nothing (hence the term "gift"!) And those of you who are a little more philanthropic and enjoy giving gifts best, you know that a little of your own sacrifice can bring so much joy to others. Well, the first Christmas was very much the same way.

Jesus Christ, humbled Himself and came to earth in the form of a human baby (Philippians 2:5-7) in order to bridge the chasm between mankind and God that was created when sin was introduced into the world; indeed, to redeem us from our sins (I John 1:7).
And not unlike our gift-giving traditions, God's gift of salvation costs us nothing to receive but cost Him the sacrifice of His own Son.

Not too many people mind allusions of Baby Jesus during Christmas time, but when the discussion turns to the "full-grown Jesus", many take offense. The Bible teaches that Jesus came to earth to help those who need help – not to condemn the world, but to save it (John 3:17). You may not feel like you "need help" or have never asked "to be saved", but when the time comes; none of us can claim innocence before a perfect God (Romans 3:23).

Sure, many of you have already heard these things in passing and some of you may have even spent hours of philosophical contemplation on these things, but wherever you are in your belief about Jesus Christ, suppose it is all true. Suppose everything you've heard from evangelicals about heaven and hell and sin and redemption are all true. Ask yourself: What will you lose by accepting His gift of salvation? What will you lose if you don't?

If you have further questions regarding these things or would just like to chat, please contact me via email at andrew@morningstarvideography.com and I will be more than happy to share with you.