I have heard of several who have had Christmas in July events. It's kind of catchy to do something like that. After all, in the middle of the year; Christmas is a good five months away. Although, the commercialism of Christmas these days, there are some pretty good sales pushing Christmas gifts about that time of year. Wait, did I really type that? OK, you can feel free to insert a sly grin there.
I've told several people during the past few years that retailers make their money between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hmmm, ignore that last paragraph's sarcasm then. Back to my original thought ~ but hoteliers in Florida make their money between January and April, with a concentrated focus on March.
What normal person living in a cold weather climate doesn't enjoy a break from the dreary, gray skies of January and February? Spring breaks typically are in March for a reason! Additionally, who wants to throw a baseball in the great white North during Feburary and March? Not me! I'm so glad God allows me to live in Florida during the winter and spring months!
The particular town where I live was home to the Brooklyn / Los Angeles Dodgers for 60+ years. It was a great love affair between our cities. Unfortunately, the Dodgers chose to leave our city for apparently greener pastures in Arizona, leaving our economy in a world of hurt at the most inopportune time. Enough about their loss!
The grounds that were once officially known as Dodgertown is now called (in official speak only) the Vero Beach Sports Village. It will, however, ALWAYS be Dodgertown to the Vero-ites. Minor League Baseball has been operating Dodger---- (see what I mean?) Vero Beach Sports Village, since the Dodgers left. They have worked diligently to bring high school and college baseball to Vero Beach during this time of year. They also host the USF Bulls football team in the August heat for their preseason camp. Umpires come down for clinics, as well as the Dodgers and Yankees (wow, that hurts) hosting their fantasy camps. Concerts and even festivals are hosted there now. They have built four new ball diamonds, as well. Essentially, this year has almost been a break through year for the hallowed grounds that once celebrated America's Past-time during February and March.
I work at a hotel about four miles away from Dodger---- (there I go again). During the first two weeks of March, this place has been almost 90% occupied. We've sold out several nights this month already. Tonight was one such night, therefore this blog post. I mentioned to my nightwatchman, I wish I had $5 for every person I've had to turn away tonight. I could take my wife out for a pretty nice dinner! We have two college baseball teams, a college rowing team, and a part of an orchestra from Germany in house tonight. It has been the proverbial zoo!
Yes, someone in the upper heirarchy of our hotel management would enjoy reading this for sure! But as I've seen the pained looks on people's faces as I've told them I've no rooms, another thought has crossed my mind. Luke 2:7, "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because their was no room for them in the inn." The innkeeper in Bethlehem was presented a need. Mary needed a place to rest. Joseph must have been a bit nervous as he sought a place to lay their heads, knowing Mary's physical condition. I realize the customs and culture of the day was different. This innkeeper was not expected to leave the light on for them. Unfortunatly, hotels.com was not around to secure the cheapest room. The fact was, however, that there was no room to be found at the Bethelehem exit, and that's exactly where Joseph needed to stay in order to keep his appointment with the local office of the taxing and census bureau.
As I've turned people away tonight (and yes, the phone has been ringing all night, too), I've honestly thought of the Christmas story. I've put myself in the shoes of the innkeeper in Bethlehem. I wish I had a place to offer these people. In fact, one young man (literally, true story!) grinned as he headed back to the door and asked if I had a room at my house where he could stay! It almost broke my heart to tell him that was not a possibility. (Yes, my wife is breathing more comfortably now.) I heard stories of how people had been driving for hours, yes HOURS, looking at every hotel at every stop for 150 miles, to no avail. Earlier this week I had a lady from OnStar call me with a client she was trying to place. No room. Earlier tonight, I had another lady traveling alone, now in a full-blown panic attack because she couldn't find a place to stay. And yes, since beginning THIS PARAGRAPH, I've fielded two phone calls inquiring about our availability.
Is there a lesson to be learned? Other than make sure you have hotel reservations when traveling through Florida in March? I think the biggest lesson to learn is to be prepared to help those with whom we come in contact. Unfortunately, we may not be able to meet the ultimate need, i.e. a room in a sold out hotel, but we may be able to offer a word of encouragement along the way.
The ultimate way to help is to provide the good news that there is a Savior who has come to this world to give hope and help. There is a Savior who has come to give the hope of eternal life and help us through the comfort only He can provide.
Christmas in ~~ March? Christmas can come anytime when we are reminded of the special birth of our Savior. Share Him with someone today, won't you?
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Friday, December 23, 2011
Traditions of Christmas
What does sparklers and knit slippers have in common? What similarities do Leeds, Alabama and Thomasville, GA share? They each are a part of my childhood Christmas traditions.
Because of geographical situations, our family would usually alternate Christmas family visits. Mom's family gathered in Alabama, dad's in Georgia. It seemed like every time we were in Alabama, there were sparklers and other fireworks involved. Every trip to Grandmama Faison's yielded a pair of knit slippers.
Doesn't sound like much, but those memories are priceless to me today. All my grandparents, two aunts, an uncle, a cousin, and my dad have all died. Maybe because every year seemed to be in a different place, there weren't annual traditions much in our family for Christmas. I do remember, though, that our get-togethers began to change as time went on.
The grandkids grew up and got married. As we began to have families of our own, it was less likely to get together with our extended families. It was much more hectic because we were scattered more than ever before.
When I married, my wife brought a completely different set of memories and traditions to the table. For example, in our family, stockings at Christmas was little more than decoration. I was a bit dumbfounded at Christmas 1990 when we literally put STUFF in the Christmas stockings!
But now that my own children are growing up, our traditions are about to change even more. It's harder to put activities together with our extended families.
Traditions change. They have to for logistic's sake. The beautiful thing about Christmas is the message of Christmas NEVER changes! Christmas is STILL about the Savior being born of a virgin, coming to forgive our sin.
I hope you've trusted Him and accepted His gift to you.
Because of geographical situations, our family would usually alternate Christmas family visits. Mom's family gathered in Alabama, dad's in Georgia. It seemed like every time we were in Alabama, there were sparklers and other fireworks involved. Every trip to Grandmama Faison's yielded a pair of knit slippers.
Doesn't sound like much, but those memories are priceless to me today. All my grandparents, two aunts, an uncle, a cousin, and my dad have all died. Maybe because every year seemed to be in a different place, there weren't annual traditions much in our family for Christmas. I do remember, though, that our get-togethers began to change as time went on.
The grandkids grew up and got married. As we began to have families of our own, it was less likely to get together with our extended families. It was much more hectic because we were scattered more than ever before.
When I married, my wife brought a completely different set of memories and traditions to the table. For example, in our family, stockings at Christmas was little more than decoration. I was a bit dumbfounded at Christmas 1990 when we literally put STUFF in the Christmas stockings!
But now that my own children are growing up, our traditions are about to change even more. It's harder to put activities together with our extended families.
Traditions change. They have to for logistic's sake. The beautiful thing about Christmas is the message of Christmas NEVER changes! Christmas is STILL about the Savior being born of a virgin, coming to forgive our sin.
I hope you've trusted Him and accepted His gift to you.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Thoughts of Christmas Giving
What do you want for Christmas this year? The answer to that question has changed (or at least should have changed) from year to year as we grow older. Our ideas of toys change as we mature. Instead of little girls asking for the latest dolls, they likely ask for jewelry, make-up, or clothes. The little boys who were thrilled with cars, footballs, or moto-cross bikes, now look forward to tools, recliners, or electronic gadgets.
I remember when I was nine years old, I got that electric Monday Night Football game. The one with plastic men on a plastic football field with a battery operated vibrator that caused the men to move all over the field. Last week, I asked for a weed-eater. Of course, I mentioned a few other things, too, but you get the idea.
Shifting gears to a more serious note though, what do you really want for Christmas this year? The complete flipside might cause us to beg for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. I overheard the complaints of a lady in a crowded line at McDonald's recently. I so much wanted to approach her, smile and say, "Merry Christmas!"
Realistically, in thinking about giving this year, could we seek to give more grace? What about kindness and gentleness? Could we spread the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ to those with whom we come in contact? Paul wrote to the Galatians that we should exemplify love, joy, peace, gentleness, etc. (see 5:22-23)
God's gift to mankind came in the form of a Baby. As a young man, Jesus willingly gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sin. He has set the example of giving. As we willingly give our lives to serve God, let's do it by giving the fruit of the Spirit to our fellow-man.
I remember when I was nine years old, I got that electric Monday Night Football game. The one with plastic men on a plastic football field with a battery operated vibrator that caused the men to move all over the field. Last week, I asked for a weed-eater. Of course, I mentioned a few other things, too, but you get the idea.
Shifting gears to a more serious note though, what do you really want for Christmas this year? The complete flipside might cause us to beg for peace on earth and goodwill toward men. I overheard the complaints of a lady in a crowded line at McDonald's recently. I so much wanted to approach her, smile and say, "Merry Christmas!"
Realistically, in thinking about giving this year, could we seek to give more grace? What about kindness and gentleness? Could we spread the joy that comes from a relationship with Christ to those with whom we come in contact? Paul wrote to the Galatians that we should exemplify love, joy, peace, gentleness, etc. (see 5:22-23)
God's gift to mankind came in the form of a Baby. As a young man, Jesus willingly gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sin. He has set the example of giving. As we willingly give our lives to serve God, let's do it by giving the fruit of the Spirit to our fellow-man.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
What's In A Story?
Everyone has a story to tell. For some, it may be a story of fame and fortune. For others, one of hardship and difficulty. Still others may have a story of adventure while some may seem, well, less than adventuresome.
I took my high school history class while attending a Christian school. The teacher reminded us that history was simply HIS story; referring to God's story. So, that ancient history class began at Creation.
Fanny J. Crosby, the writer of thousands of hymns, wrote, "This is my story, this is my song. Praising my Savior, all the day long!" Her story was one of praising her Savior. She found a way, although blinded from childhood, to praise God. Her life, her story, was marked by praising the One she loved most.
What's your story? This Christmas season, be encouraged to allow your story to impact those around you with the ultimate story of the Savior. He came to give us a reason to sing. He came to give us life, full and abundant!
I took my high school history class while attending a Christian school. The teacher reminded us that history was simply HIS story; referring to God's story. So, that ancient history class began at Creation.
Fanny J. Crosby, the writer of thousands of hymns, wrote, "This is my story, this is my song. Praising my Savior, all the day long!" Her story was one of praising her Savior. She found a way, although blinded from childhood, to praise God. Her life, her story, was marked by praising the One she loved most.
What's your story? This Christmas season, be encouraged to allow your story to impact those around you with the ultimate story of the Savior. He came to give us a reason to sing. He came to give us life, full and abundant!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Christmas Traditions
As a young boy growing up, our family always lived a bit of a distance away from our extended family. And, because my grandparents lived in different states, it meant we had to choose which family to visit for the Christmas holiday. Very rare was the year when we would be able to visit both.
Each set of extended family had their own "traditions." For example, I remember on Christmas Day gathering in the living room at my grandmother's home in Alabama to open gifts. One of the grandchildren would be the appointed Santa Claus for that year and hand out the gifts. We could always tell when a 'gag gift' was going to be given. The guilty wrapper had a camera pointed at the wrappee when it was about to be opened. Many laughs were shared around the fireplace and the Christmas tree.
Now, we're older. Grandmama has gone on to be with Jesus, as has my aunt, my dad, and a cousin. My generation has families of our own, and it is difficult to all get together again. We have begun our own Christmas traditions. My daughters will only hear stories of Christmases past, and it is my priviledge to share them. Being able to share the memories of those traditions is actually one of the highlights of being a dad.
One tradition has not changed in all the years. Someone, no matter where we are, will read at least one of the Christmas accounts from Scripture. When Mary and Joseph couldn't get into the inn, but had to sleep in the barn; Jesus was born, and because there was no crib, was laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes. We'll read about the angels telling the shepherds who were minding their own business in the field, but dropped everything to come running to the city. We'll read how those shepherds, the typically rejected in society, would be among the first to welcome Jesus to Earth from His splendor of Heaven. We'll read of their excitement as they are able to spread the news to anyone else who will listen.
Therein lies the point. My job as a parent is to share with my children the excitement of what Christmas is all about. Not necessarily the material gifts wrapped under the Christmas tree. As much fun as it is to have one of those white elephant gifts waiting to be unwrapped by an unsuspecting family member in good humor, the important part of this day is remembering that we are here to celebrate Jesus. As we spend time with our family traditions, make sure one of yours is to take the time to read about the real reason for Christmas. From the Bible. The New Testament books of Matthew (chapter 1) and Luke (chapter 2) give those accounts. If that isn't yet a tradition of yours, let 2010 be the most important year to date, and begin to share with your family the real Christmas story.
I'd love to hear your Christmas ideas and creative ways of sharing the all-important Christmas account with your family this year.
Blessings, my friends!
Each set of extended family had their own "traditions." For example, I remember on Christmas Day gathering in the living room at my grandmother's home in Alabama to open gifts. One of the grandchildren would be the appointed Santa Claus for that year and hand out the gifts. We could always tell when a 'gag gift' was going to be given. The guilty wrapper had a camera pointed at the wrappee when it was about to be opened. Many laughs were shared around the fireplace and the Christmas tree.
Now, we're older. Grandmama has gone on to be with Jesus, as has my aunt, my dad, and a cousin. My generation has families of our own, and it is difficult to all get together again. We have begun our own Christmas traditions. My daughters will only hear stories of Christmases past, and it is my priviledge to share them. Being able to share the memories of those traditions is actually one of the highlights of being a dad.
One tradition has not changed in all the years. Someone, no matter where we are, will read at least one of the Christmas accounts from Scripture. When Mary and Joseph couldn't get into the inn, but had to sleep in the barn; Jesus was born, and because there was no crib, was laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes. We'll read about the angels telling the shepherds who were minding their own business in the field, but dropped everything to come running to the city. We'll read how those shepherds, the typically rejected in society, would be among the first to welcome Jesus to Earth from His splendor of Heaven. We'll read of their excitement as they are able to spread the news to anyone else who will listen.
Therein lies the point. My job as a parent is to share with my children the excitement of what Christmas is all about. Not necessarily the material gifts wrapped under the Christmas tree. As much fun as it is to have one of those white elephant gifts waiting to be unwrapped by an unsuspecting family member in good humor, the important part of this day is remembering that we are here to celebrate Jesus. As we spend time with our family traditions, make sure one of yours is to take the time to read about the real reason for Christmas. From the Bible. The New Testament books of Matthew (chapter 1) and Luke (chapter 2) give those accounts. If that isn't yet a tradition of yours, let 2010 be the most important year to date, and begin to share with your family the real Christmas story.
I'd love to hear your Christmas ideas and creative ways of sharing the all-important Christmas account with your family this year.
Blessings, my friends!
What's Wrong With Merry Christmas?
We live in an increasingly politically correct culture. In a society that prefers Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays, I'll confess that I'm not a very politically correct person. Especially when it pertains to Christmas!
Approaching this Christmas season, the thought occurred to me that we only hear this struggle at Christmas. The other holidays of the year are treated with greetings of their own merit. From Valentine's Day to Veteran's Day, each holiday seems to have it's own greeting.
While some may argue that we group Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's in order to refer to the season or holidays, both Thanksgiving and New Year's seems to have their own greeting ~ leaving Christmas out in the proverbial cold. (There is absolutely no seasonal pun intended there!) Incidentally, before the freedom from religion card gets played, I would suggest that even Hanukkah and Kwanzaa gets their own respect from a culture that seems to refuse Christmas the same.
Would you join me in wishing those in your sphere of influence a very Merry Christmas? A genuine smile and a Merry Christmas could go a long way in making someone's day!
Approaching this Christmas season, the thought occurred to me that we only hear this struggle at Christmas. The other holidays of the year are treated with greetings of their own merit. From Valentine's Day to Veteran's Day, each holiday seems to have it's own greeting.
While some may argue that we group Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's in order to refer to the season or holidays, both Thanksgiving and New Year's seems to have their own greeting ~ leaving Christmas out in the proverbial cold. (There is absolutely no seasonal pun intended there!) Incidentally, before the freedom from religion card gets played, I would suggest that even Hanukkah and Kwanzaa gets their own respect from a culture that seems to refuse Christmas the same.
Would you join me in wishing those in your sphere of influence a very Merry Christmas? A genuine smile and a Merry Christmas could go a long way in making someone's day!
Friday, December 25, 2009
I wonder just how God chose Mary and Joseph...
I was thinking earlier on Christmas Eve about Mary and Joseph. I wondered about the qualities they possessed that would prompt God to choose them to be the earthly parents of Jesus. Then, the thought occurred to me that Jesus is the only person who has been born on this earth to be able to choose His own birth parents!
Did He see patience in them (Mary and Joseph)? Did God see a particular gentleness or was it a firm hand that caught His eye? Did He observe a financial prowess in Joseph's carpenter shop, or Mary's ability to sing as pretty a song as she wrote? Was it a work ethic they possessed, or did they have a 'jack-of-all-trades' ability?
We'll never know the answers to these questions, and quite honestly, the answers have absolutely no bearing on the eternal scope of life. For whatever reason, I had begun to wonder if Jesus were just now coming to earth the first time, would I even be considered a candidate to be the earthly dad of the Son of God? Do I possess any of the qualities or characteristics of Joseph?
I would have to say that I would fall way short of Joseph's abilities and characteristics. I don't see myself as being even on a short list for that job. But the good news is that I don't have to be. Aside from the fact that He's already come, I don't have to be 'good enough' for that job. That's not the goal. The goal is to have as close a relationship with Jesus as I possibly can. Doing so means I want to involve myself with steady Bible study and prayer. It means I want to enjoy fellowship with other believers and a Bible believing and teaching local church. I will want to participate in being a genuine servant to others.
If you are reading this and would be interested in further dialogue about how to connect with God and begin a relationship with Him, please feel free to simply comment to me and I would be happy to share with you how you, too, can enjoy a relationship with the Creator of the Universe. There's actually no better time than right now to do just that. I'm praying you will.
Did He see patience in them (Mary and Joseph)? Did God see a particular gentleness or was it a firm hand that caught His eye? Did He observe a financial prowess in Joseph's carpenter shop, or Mary's ability to sing as pretty a song as she wrote? Was it a work ethic they possessed, or did they have a 'jack-of-all-trades' ability?
We'll never know the answers to these questions, and quite honestly, the answers have absolutely no bearing on the eternal scope of life. For whatever reason, I had begun to wonder if Jesus were just now coming to earth the first time, would I even be considered a candidate to be the earthly dad of the Son of God? Do I possess any of the qualities or characteristics of Joseph?
I would have to say that I would fall way short of Joseph's abilities and characteristics. I don't see myself as being even on a short list for that job. But the good news is that I don't have to be. Aside from the fact that He's already come, I don't have to be 'good enough' for that job. That's not the goal. The goal is to have as close a relationship with Jesus as I possibly can. Doing so means I want to involve myself with steady Bible study and prayer. It means I want to enjoy fellowship with other believers and a Bible believing and teaching local church. I will want to participate in being a genuine servant to others.
If you are reading this and would be interested in further dialogue about how to connect with God and begin a relationship with Him, please feel free to simply comment to me and I would be happy to share with you how you, too, can enjoy a relationship with the Creator of the Universe. There's actually no better time than right now to do just that. I'm praying you will.
Merry Christmas
Does it seem more and more that the commercialism of Christmas seems to dominate the worldview? Have you noticed that even in many conservative circles of politics and practices, wishing a Merry Christmas seems to be nothing more than 'tradition'? May the phrase take on a new, heartfelt meaning today.
From the Faison family to yours, have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!
From the Faison family to yours, have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The Big Deal of Christmas
Christmas ad campaigns come earlier and harder every year. Sale papers and flyers litter every Sunday newspaper enticing us with ideas for Christmas gifts. I even heard a retailer for eye glasses putting a Christmas spin on a recent radio spot. The Political Correct crowd get into the picture in the debate of Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas. Incidentally, for me, it will always be Merry Christmas, unless intending it to be all-inclusive with Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. So, what's all the fuss? At the risk of sounding like the Grinch or Ebenezer Scrooge, just what is the big deal about Christmas?
For the Christian, there is but one answer, however, there are a number of factors that enter the equation. It could begin with even the announcement of Christ's birth. The angels had the privilege of announcing His birth to both Mary and Joseph (separately) and then to the shepherds out in the fields on the very night of His birth. Christmas is a big deal because of the importance of His birth, and the angels' announcement set the tone for just how big the event was.
The couple chosen to be the earthly parents of Jesus also anticipated the event. Remember, they were human, just like we are. They were excited, albeit nervous, about this blessed event. Some of Mary's thoughts are summarized in Luke 1:39-55 when she wrote a song (now referred to as the Magnificat.) What a beautiful way of sharing a bit of her soul with all of us. Joseph allowed his actions to speak volumes in first of accepting Mary as his wife, then refraining from consummating the marriage until after Jesus was born.
The birth of Jesus was affirmed by several others in His early earthly life. Mary and Joseph were careful to fulfill the law with the offering of two turtledoves when He was eight days old. Simeon and Anna both blessed the Messiah in their old age, signifying their anticipation of such an event.
A short while after He was born, the worldly leaders were stirred with anxiety. The Magi from the East came seeking Him to worship Him. They stopped by to visit Herod, asking him of the Child's whereabouts. Herod immediately began to devise a way to put Jesus out of the picture. Obviously, Herod was threatened by this young Child. The world has continued to be perplexed and even angered at the very presence, mention, or thought of Jesus.
There are some relevant factors involved in how all these work together to answer the question about why Christmas is such a big deal. The birth of Jesus gives us an abiding principle to live by. The Ten Commandments had been given, yet Jesus' birth summed the Ten into Two ~ Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus said on these two hang all the law of the prophets.
We also enjoy an understanding of an abiding purpose. As Jesus ascended back to Heaven, He plainly stated His purpose for us all. We are to evangelize and make disciples. Recorded more than once in Scripture, this is plain for us to heed.
Among my favorite factors relevant to the big deal of Christmas is the gift of His abiding peace. Some 700 years before He was born in Bethlehem, the prophet Isaiah said He would be the Prince of Peace. When the angels announced His birth, they said, "Glory to God in the highest! And on earth, PEACE, goodwill to men!" The Apostle Paul, writing to the Philippians, said about Jesus, He gives the peace that passes all understanding (4:7)!
The big deal of Christmas can bring peace that passes all understanding. Suicides will spike during these couple of months ~ because those who choose not to trust Christ do not understand the peace they are missing. There are those battling discouragement right now because they do not have the peace that passes understanding. Worry and grief take an unnecessary toll on those who do not accept the peace that passes all understanding.
This is not to say that the person who trusts Christ will not have problems. Nor is it intended to say we will not grieve or have discouraging times; but what is certain is the fact that the presence of Christ in our lives allows us to deal with these issues with the understanding that He is walking the road with us. The big deal of Christmas is a confidence in the presence of Christ's principles, purposes, and peace. I don't understand a lot of it, but I'm sure glad to accept it.
For the Christian, there is but one answer, however, there are a number of factors that enter the equation. It could begin with even the announcement of Christ's birth. The angels had the privilege of announcing His birth to both Mary and Joseph (separately) and then to the shepherds out in the fields on the very night of His birth. Christmas is a big deal because of the importance of His birth, and the angels' announcement set the tone for just how big the event was.
The couple chosen to be the earthly parents of Jesus also anticipated the event. Remember, they were human, just like we are. They were excited, albeit nervous, about this blessed event. Some of Mary's thoughts are summarized in Luke 1:39-55 when she wrote a song (now referred to as the Magnificat.) What a beautiful way of sharing a bit of her soul with all of us. Joseph allowed his actions to speak volumes in first of accepting Mary as his wife, then refraining from consummating the marriage until after Jesus was born.
The birth of Jesus was affirmed by several others in His early earthly life. Mary and Joseph were careful to fulfill the law with the offering of two turtledoves when He was eight days old. Simeon and Anna both blessed the Messiah in their old age, signifying their anticipation of such an event.
A short while after He was born, the worldly leaders were stirred with anxiety. The Magi from the East came seeking Him to worship Him. They stopped by to visit Herod, asking him of the Child's whereabouts. Herod immediately began to devise a way to put Jesus out of the picture. Obviously, Herod was threatened by this young Child. The world has continued to be perplexed and even angered at the very presence, mention, or thought of Jesus.
There are some relevant factors involved in how all these work together to answer the question about why Christmas is such a big deal. The birth of Jesus gives us an abiding principle to live by. The Ten Commandments had been given, yet Jesus' birth summed the Ten into Two ~ Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus said on these two hang all the law of the prophets.
We also enjoy an understanding of an abiding purpose. As Jesus ascended back to Heaven, He plainly stated His purpose for us all. We are to evangelize and make disciples. Recorded more than once in Scripture, this is plain for us to heed.
Among my favorite factors relevant to the big deal of Christmas is the gift of His abiding peace. Some 700 years before He was born in Bethlehem, the prophet Isaiah said He would be the Prince of Peace. When the angels announced His birth, they said, "Glory to God in the highest! And on earth, PEACE, goodwill to men!" The Apostle Paul, writing to the Philippians, said about Jesus, He gives the peace that passes all understanding (4:7)!
The big deal of Christmas can bring peace that passes all understanding. Suicides will spike during these couple of months ~ because those who choose not to trust Christ do not understand the peace they are missing. There are those battling discouragement right now because they do not have the peace that passes understanding. Worry and grief take an unnecessary toll on those who do not accept the peace that passes all understanding.
This is not to say that the person who trusts Christ will not have problems. Nor is it intended to say we will not grieve or have discouraging times; but what is certain is the fact that the presence of Christ in our lives allows us to deal with these issues with the understanding that He is walking the road with us. The big deal of Christmas is a confidence in the presence of Christ's principles, purposes, and peace. I don't understand a lot of it, but I'm sure glad to accept it.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Music Matters
The Christmas season is filled with music. While visiting a shopping mall in mid-November, stores were already playing Christmas music. Now that Thanksgiving has passed, we expect to hear more and more 'songs of the season.' In fact, radio stations devote 24 hours a day to Christmas music.
During November, we made ballots available for our church to vote for their favorite Christmas carols. The votes were tabulated and this past Sunday, we began to count down the Top Ten Christmas Carols at Ryanwood Fellowship. A very important truth was mentioned during that service. As we began to sing some of our favorite carols, our pastor reminded us of the tremendous theological truths that can be found in them.
When we hear Christmas music this season, listening to Winter Wonderland and Frosty can be fun and bring out the 'festive' in the season. But as we hear The First Noel and Joy To The World, let's allow that to bring out the 'worship' in the season. Perhaps it will allow us the opportunity to share with a friend or family member the real reason we can celebrate.
During November, we made ballots available for our church to vote for their favorite Christmas carols. The votes were tabulated and this past Sunday, we began to count down the Top Ten Christmas Carols at Ryanwood Fellowship. A very important truth was mentioned during that service. As we began to sing some of our favorite carols, our pastor reminded us of the tremendous theological truths that can be found in them.
When we hear Christmas music this season, listening to Winter Wonderland and Frosty can be fun and bring out the 'festive' in the season. But as we hear The First Noel and Joy To The World, let's allow that to bring out the 'worship' in the season. Perhaps it will allow us the opportunity to share with a friend or family member the real reason we can celebrate.
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