What does Christmas Mean to You?

Merry Christmas! It's that special time of year again when colored lights adorn the house at the end of the street. The stores are playing Christmas tunes as people hustle through the isles filling their shopping carts with gifts to make the little ones smile. "Buy now pay later" is the catchphrase of the season. Christmas trees, wrapping presents, baking cookies, and parties with family and friends are all part of this festive time of year. 

A reporter asked various people, "What does Christmas mean to you?" The number one answer was usually, "Family. Getting together with family is so meaningful this time of year."  Family is so important and having a healthly relationship with family members is to be desired. 

But the truth is that Christmas isn't about lights, music, shopping, presents, or even family. Christmas put quite simply, is about Jesus. And every year it seems Jesus becomes less and less the focus. Jesus is obscured by the lights, the shopping, and even family. 

Perhaps we can point people back to the real meaning of Christmas. There are many customs built up around Christmas time. Maybe we could remember the time of year through the lens of Jesus. After all, 

• Jesus is the LIGHT of the world
• Jesus LIGHTS the life of every man
• Jesus is the greatest GIFT we have ever received
• Jesus died on a cross made from a TREE
• Jesus BOUGHT our salvation with His own blood
• Jesus said whoever comes to me will never go HUNGRY

Add to the list your own comparisons. Can you connect Christmas carols to Jesus? How about the North Pole? What about watching for Santa Claus to come?

May you have a blessed Christmas season as you celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ!