The Spirit Of Christmas
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Micah 5:2
When most people talk about the spirit of Christmas I would contend that it is not truly The Spirit of Christmas. The generic spirit of Christmas has to do with a good feeling, happy emotions that might make one feel generous, more kindly, even jolly. Yet the true Spirit of Christmas has nothing to do with quick-changing emotions. It does not depend upon the right music and atmosphere, or lots of great food, and perhaps a party to go with it.
Try to imagine Jesus, One of the Trinity of God. The Father explains that someone is needed to save the human race. For left to their own devices they are wicked and deceitful and make a mockery of the very godlike image given to them. Despite the ability to think and reason they are ultimately slaves to sin and destined for destruction.
Furthermore, it will take a sacrificial lamb, One who is willing to be born into a human body, placed within a womb, become a human creature from diapers to manhood suffering all the indignities of humanity. Not only that, but having to endure the animosity of the very beings He is going to Save. There is a great silence in heaven. Suddenly, Jesus steps forward and says: I will go!
Much is made about a baby and a manger. Stories about the shepherds, the wise men, the star–all fascinating stuff. But the gravity that we occasionally feel over Christ’s sacrifice at Easter, it all began with a birth at Christmas.
I don’t propose that we become grim and morose at Christmastime, but rather that when we think about the Baby Jesus we do not lose sight of what a truly incredible sacrifice, what a gift, Jesus made and gave to us. It is out of that sacrifice that we find New Birth, the earthly body infilled with a heavenly Spirit. Jesus is born anew in ourselves when we receive Him as our Savior and Lord.
I love the music, enjoy the food, the Christmas stories and movies. Also the lights, the decorations, the generosity of giving, even Kris Kringle and his reindeer. I like it all. But the true Spirit of Christmas transcends gifts, lights, parades, and music. The trappings of the secular holiday do not embody the actual Spirit of Christ in Christmas.
I just visited a friend in a nursing home. It was silent, even eerie walking down the deserted corridors before finally seeing a staff member. I found my friend and the two of us began conversing about old times and recent events and the lives of family members. Some might argue that the two of us in the quiet nursing home conversing with each other had nothing to do with the spirit of Christmas. And as far as the holiday, I would agree. But regarding the Spirit of Christ–I think we had it figured out.
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20
The season of Christmas is upon us now. Family gatherings, giving presents, enjoying food and fellowship, all these things are great fun. But I encourage you in the midst of it all to find a way to partake of the Spirit of Christ. True Joy comes from fellowship with our Lord and other believers. Let Christ enter into your Christmas this year.
Prayer: Dear Lord, we get busy with a holiday and lose sight of You. Help us to make time for Your presence during a season that we say is about Your Birth. It’s Your birthday but somehow we get all the gifts, even the greatest Gift of all: Your Saving Presence through Your Spirit. Thank You Jesus for the True Christmas Spirit. Amen.
