When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
New International Version
Jesus is the light of the world. Christmas day we celebrate the coming of that light. We’ve lost a lot of the significance of the holiday because of commercialization and legends of Santa. That’s why we have to intentionally choose to remember the real reason for this holiday.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
New International Version
We celebrate Christmas because Jesus came in the most humble fashion. Being born to a virgin meant that most people would assume He was illegitimate (born out of wedlock). There was nothing grand and wonderful about being born to a family where everyone would assume His mother was unfaithful to His father.
Also, He was born in a stable. That’s where the animals lived, ate, and did their business. Nothing special or fantastic about that either. Yet, everything about Him was and is wonderful. He came humble and died humble. Crucifixion was one of the most humiliating and shameful ways to die. He was beaten and then hung naked on a cross.
In humility He came and in humility He died. But the story doesn’t end there.
For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. 1 Corinthians 15:3-5
New International Version
He did not stay dead in the grave. Death did not overcome Him; He overcame the grave. He defeat death so that we no longer needed to fear it. He made it so that we can come to the Father God through Him and have a personal relationship. He provides the gift of grace, mercy, and salvation so that we can have eternal life and peace in heaven.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me [Jesus]. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:1-3
New International Version
When Jesus ascended into heaven, He prepared a place for all of those who are in relationship with Him. Remember, relationship with Jesus is active. You must spend time with Him for it to grow.
This Christmas I hope that you celebrate not because you have wonderful gifts but because of the One Great Gift; Jesus. Merry Christmas!
