Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you: He is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10 (NIV)
“Here Comes Santa Claus” is a song symbolizing the fact that a sacred holiday has been twisted into a business venture. Because merchants count on large income from holiday sales, some stores begin displaying Christmas merchandise in October. After all, it is the most lucrative shopping season of the year.
Only when people look away from the commercialization of Christmas, can it become apparent that this is a time like no other. Feelings of good cheer and goodwill abound on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Even among those lacking an understanding of the significance of the celebration, warm wishes and a spirit of the brotherhood of mankind can be observed.
Some repeat the slogan, “Jesus is the reason for the season.” And, He is. Piles of gifts and holiday parties cannot mask the true reason we celebrate. Such a divine purpose surpasses the presumption and arrogance of our meager attempts at human intervention.
The true significance of Christmas is that it is the day set aside to remember that the Lord of Lords, the Prince of Peace, the Savior of the World, humbled himself out of love to come among us as a helpless baby. The shadow of the redemptive cross of Calvary falls over a manger.
Manmade commercialization cannot overcome the power of that fact.
Father God, thank You for the immeasurable gift you gave when You sent Your Son to us. Knowing we would torture and kill Him, You sent Him anyway—as a vulnerable infant. What indescribable love. Help us to understand that concept and to drink in the spirit of Your love this Christmas.
© Christena Struben 2009
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2 comments:
Keeping the fun of Santa separated from the reason for Christmas is a challenge. The key is having parents who know the difference.
I have said for many years that the children should be taught the true meaning of Christmas long before Santa comes into their lives. I am still "telling it on the mountain", every chance I have. God bless you for such a wonderful devotional.
Bonnie
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