They call this the most wonderful time of the year. Have you ever thought about why Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year? Have you ever noticed how the world comes to a halt at that specific time, even countries and people that don’t celebrate Christmas, seem to take a pause, perhaps a moment to reflect, at this time? We hear songs and we sing songs we would never sing at any other time of the year. We eat food that we would not eat during the rest of the year, like gammon and fruit cake. We would even eat more than is good for us. We will leave our homes and travel, sometimes great distances, to spend time with family and those who are special to us. We decorate our homes in ways we would never do at other times during the year. We will go out and buy gifts for others for no specific reason – just because it’s Christmas. Even our attitudes can change at this time of the year, as we endeavor to be a blessing to others. We take time off from work or studies to just be together with family and friends. There is a sense of goodwill and hope that arises in people’s hearts. People generally seem happier and smile more easily. Some people who would never cast a shadow at the church entrance will be found sitting in crowded churches, and often it’s not even on a Sunday. There is something incredibly special, mysterious, and wonderful about this incredible time. The Bible calls it a time of good news and glad tidings and that is what it is.
CHRISTMAS WAS GOD’S IDEA
No man could ever come up with such an enduring idea. Imagine an idea that could captivate the world for thousands of years. Celebrations and traditions come and go, but this one continues to intrigue humanity. Out of nowhere, when no one was expecting it, God interrupted human history and angels appeared and a Baby was born.
Luke 2:9-11Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. ”Don’t be afraid!” he said. ”I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, Who is Christ the Lord.” (NLT)
I love the word ‘suddenly’ in this translation. I also love the words ‘Good News – Great Joy – To all people!’ God did not come to humanity with instructions, He came with a declaration and gift – the promise of good news and great joy to all people and the Gift of a Saviour in the form of a helpless baby. This was the undeserved and unmerited favour and kindness of God to humanity, and only heaven knew how desperately we needed it.
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