The World Needs a Savior

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.   And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. "  Isaiah 9:6

Christmas is such a wonderful time.  Although most Christians recognize that Jesus probably wasn't born on exactly December 25 (many theologians point towards a date sometime in mid-September, there are many citations on the internet), we still have chosen to celebrate His birth on this day.  I'm not looking to debate the merits of the celebration today.  I'm looking to recognize what a special time it is.

Let's face it, even for Christians,Christmas isn't just about Jesus.  It's about spending time with family, Christmas pageants, good food and cool gifts.  Sometimes we hear Christians lament the fact that Jesus isn't the ONLY reason for the season.  Of course, He is THE reason for the season, but isn't God so awesome?  He gives us this time of celebration and allows us to celebrate with family, friends, even strangers sometimes.  We don't have to scream and yell and tell the world they are wrong because they celebrate Christmas the wrong way.  Because they aren't wrong - not totally.

Christmas advertising begins in the fall, and we've all seen the tinsel and lights and thought, "This is crazy!  It's too early!"  But this year, I thought something else.  I realized that I don't need anymore evidence than Christmas in September to recognize how much the world is hungry for a savior. 

They substitute that need with lights, gifts and snowmen and reindeer.  But I see what they really want - they want to come home for Christmas.  There's a quote from a woman named Carol Nelson who says, "Christmas is a time when you get homesick-even when you're home."  I've felt that before, have you? 

Now I recognize what I'm homesick for.  I'm homesick for my eternal home, with my eternal Father.  And so are non-Christians, even though they don't recognize it.  During this Christmas season, from September to January, we practically have a written invitation from the world to talk about Jesus.  They want to talk about Christmas - so let's talk!  They want to advertise and buy gifts - let's show them what the true gift is.  Christmas is a time when even the hardest-hearted Scrooge gets mushy and lovey.  So let's use that opportunity for Christ.  Instead of bemoaning how early Christmas starts, let's celebrate it!! 

When you're comparing your gift list with your neighbor tomorrow, remind yourself of the scripture above:  For unto us, a Son is given.  The greatest gift.  The only gift.  The eternal gift. 

Tomorrow we'll talk about how Christmas is a gift, even when it brings us sadness.  Because of Christmas, we have a Wonderful Counselor . . . and more.