Christ Jesus is The Difference

Christmas time is here once again, and once again most people find themselves reflecting on the “reason for the season”. That “reason” for a large majority is related to the celebration of the birth of Christ Jesus. For some it is simply a “holiday” where friends and family come together for a time of togetherness.

For me Christmas time is a wonderful time of year. I have very fond memories of family and friends coming together to celebrate. In the home of my childhood this time of year had a very special meaning as my parents were quick to remind my brother and I that Jesus came (God incarnate), born to a virgin in a lowly manger to save those who would believe in Him.

I believe this to be true with all my heart. Jesus is God and was born to a virgin in humble manner, and this, so that God’s plan and purpose in saving His people could be fulfilled. It is really incredible to think about; God became man, so that He could save those who are called to salvation.

But, in this day and age I find things that disturb me during this wonderful time of year. Some in “mainstream” Christian circles focus so intently on the birth of Jesus with elaborate pageants, cantatas, and church services that I believe that the real message of Christ Jesus’ birth is lost. You see, Jesus was born, so that He could die and then live again. That should be the real message of the Christmas season.

Zechariah spoke to what followers of Christ should be celebrating this time of year. Jesus came and there was great rejoicing in Heaven and on earth when He did. He is King and was treated as such as he made His way in to Jerusalem, the Kingly city of David, to be scourged and then hung a cross to die. Jesus paid the ultimate price, so those who follow Him could be saved. He brought salvation.

The God who saves is the real “reason for the season”. Jesus was and is that humble King that Zechariah refers to. He is who was born “unto us”, FOR US, who took upon the sin of those who would believe. Sacrificing himself as the substitution to atone for the evil that we do, so an eternal death could be averted. THAT is the true reason for celebration this time of year.

My prayer for you right now is that you remember during this time that Christ Jesus was much more than a babe in a manger. He is God and worthy of all honor and glory this Christmas season.