For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6 KJV)
During this season of the year, all over the world many are decorating, buying gifts for family and friends, baking, listening to and singing special music, sending cards, etc. Churches and organizations are hosting special services and programs. Some are planning and already having parties.
However, we are in a pandemic, and some of this type of celebrating should not be happening, based on what we have been told that is happening with this virus. It’s all right to celebrate, but we must listen to those in authority if we want to be healed of this contagion. Proverbs 4:7 (ESV) confirms this plainly for the believer, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
First and foremost, the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the reason for the season. Therefore, we must remember to celebrate Jesus during this season and always because it is only through Him that man can be saved.
Christian author, Robert Driskell, shared this insight about the birth of Jesus Christ: “Luke 1:26-38 tells us the story of the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. This must have been quite unnerving for Mary, a visit from a heavenly being telling her that she, a virgin, had been chosen to give birth to the Savior of the world. Mary was initially frightened until Gabriel told her that she had found favor with God. Gabriel explained to her that she would conceive a child by the power of the Holy Spirit. His conception was a one-time event that was unique in all of history. The angel told Mary a few things about her soon-to-be-son:
‘He was to be called Jesus’ (1:31);
‘He will be great and be called the Son of the Most High’ (1:32);
‘God will give Him the throne of David’ (1:32);
‘There will be no end to His kingdom’ (1:33);
‘He will be called Holy-the Son of God’” (1:35).
Consequently, Jesus deserves to be celebrated. Parents and grandparents, as you teach your children about celebrating Christmas, please be sure to share the true meaning of it all. When you tell them about Santa, make sure that you teach them the difference between Santa and Jesus Christ, the Savior. As I close, let me share a special poem of contrasts, “Jesus is Better than Santa Claus” (TruthBook.com):
“Santa lives at the North Pole;
n Jesus is everywhere.
Santa rides in a sleigh;
n Jesus rides on the wind and walks on the water.
Santa comes but once a year;
n Jesus is an ever-present help.
Santa fills your stockings with goodies;
n Jesus supplies all your needs.
Santa comes down your chimney uninvited;
n Jesus stands at your door and knocks…and then enters your heart.
You have to stand in line to see Santa;
n Jesus is as close as the mention of His name.
Santa lets you sit on his lap;
n Jesus lets you rest in His arms.
Santa doesn’t know your name; all he can say is, ‘Hi little boy or girl — What’s your name?’
n Jesus knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name; He knows our address too. He knows our history and future, and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.
(Anna Bright is a minister and educator in Walterboro. She can be reached at abrightcolumn@lowcountry.com)
