Tomorrow we will be celebrating one of the biggest holidays in our Nation. Yet, for many people it is not a Merry Christmas. It can be a difficult time for those struggling with medical issues, or those who have lost a loved one. Last week I even heard of someone who was released from their job, the Friday before Christmas. The sources of pain do not stop there. The holiday can also amplify the pain in a relationship (or lack of a relationship) with a loved one. I have walked beside many who carry these painful burdens. While I cannot change anyone’s situation, I would like to offer a different perspective on Christmas that just might lift your spirits.
Our Christmas holiday is a complex event. It rolls together just about all areas of life, from having a good time to spending time with loved ones. It also encompasses old and new family traditions along with many memories from Christmas past. We are also bombarded with the light displays, our favorite seasonal songs and even all the sweets and special holiday dishes…let’s not forget the opportunity to splurge on the giving and receiving of gifts. It is easy in all of this for us to miss the most important part of Christmas!
Christmas is for hurting people. The true meaning of Christmas is to bring hope and healing to those who are hurting. The core focus of Christmas is to celebrate Jesus and His love for those trapped in a broken world. One of the most well known Bible verses says it best: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” (John 3:16–17). Christmas is a demonstration of God’s heart for you. A love revealed in the sacrifice of our Heavenly Father of the Only Begotten Son to deliver you from the bondage of a broken creation.
I believe Jesus communicates it best, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”” (Matthew 11:28–30).
If your heart is hurting this Holiday season, could I encourage you to look past all the ornaments and traditions of the season to see Jesus and God’s heart for you. A heart that desires to have a relationship with you and was willing to make the greatest sacrifice to make it happen.
“And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”” (Luke 2:10–11).
Merry CHRIST-mas!
-Pastor Joe Parkinson