The Christmas season is upon us. To some the season means buying gifts for family members that we only speak to at Christmas time and having dinner with friends and family that we are in conflict with.
During this time of year many people destroy their credit rating by maxing out their credit cards. This is the time of year that our electric bill rises due to the constant burning of Christmas lights. To some this season is a lonely and depressing time of the year. Statistics show that there is a high suicide rate among people due to loneliness and depression. Merchants capitalize on the season knowing that people will purchase items just because it's Christmas.
Truly, Christmas has long lost its true meaning. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The cliche is correct: "Jesus is the reason for the season." The best gift was given on calvary when Jesus gave his life that we (mankind) might have an abundant life. Had it not been for the birth, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, there would be no reason to celebrate Christmas.
The promise of our Savior was prophesied in the Old Testament book of Isaiah 9: 6-7. And it was recorded in the New Testament in Luke 2:8-20. The world in the Old and New Testament was in need of a Savior. The world that we live in today still is in need of that same Savior. In Isaiah, he is called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting father, The Prince of Peace. In Matthew he is referred to as Immanuel, being interpreted as "God with us." In Luke he is referred to as the Son of God. He is the savior of the world.
America is going through tough times; so many people are unemployed, homeless and hurting because of natural disasters and personal losses. Let's celebrate the true meaning of Christmas this year. Celebrate the birth of Christ this season by helping those who are less fortunate. If you don't have the money for gift-giving or a family to dine with, celebrate the fact that you have life. Learn to be thankful for the things that you have and don't lament about the things that you do not have. Celebrate our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; he is the true meaning of Christmas!
I wish you peace on earth and good will to all, and a very merry Christ-filled Christmas.
- Anderson is a co-pastor at Love Unlimited Ministries in Williamsport.
