Preparing for Christmas

On Wednesday I visited the hairdresser, and like everywhere at the moment, the Christmas buzz is starting continuing. It's December and people are getting worried. They need to find the PERFECT present for each close relative and friend. Not too expensive but not too cheap, not too cheesy but not too outrageous, suitable but not predictable... All the worry about shopping for Christmas presents creates a stressful atmosphere. And that's just the presents. What about the tree, the lights, the cherries, the tinsel, the ham, the stockings, the beer, the fruit cake, the pies.......

But is this necessary? I think that in ensuring every tiny detail is perfected, people are missing out when it comes to the most important thing. Sure, the retail industry loves this time of year. And those that win the Christmas raffles will have a smile on their face. But most people are at a loss, and not only about what gift to get their Mum. Because ultimately for them it comes down planning a time to be merry, an opportunity to down a few drinks and good food, and a reason to get a week off from work.
So when I was sitting at the hairdresser, I thought about how ignorant people have become. Isn't Christmas supposed to be a time of peace? What's with all the stress then? Why has the word 'joy' been replaced with 'merry'? Why has the focus shifted from heavenly glory to earthly pride? People have lost the true meaning of Christmas. Over time, increasing delight in the physical celebration has led to a sliding away from the spiritual and God-centred celebration. Instead of glorifying God, the focus has become on pleasing Santa and the people coming over for lunch.

I think that we must remember to stop pleasing men, but instead be grateful to God for the blessing of Christmas. Instead of waiting for Santa and the presents that will break and rust, be amazed by the unfading knowledge that God is with us even today, and He continually bestows gifts on His children. Enjoy the peace of knowing that Christ's birth, along with His death on a tree, grants us the greatest gift of all. Be joyful in the birth of Christ as true man, securing our salvation and providing us with everlasting joy. Rejoice that He was willing to humble Himself for you. Be a shining light in this world that is darkened by the ignorance of the gospel. And live in the hope of His return.

And so I wish my blog readers an enjoyable December. I wish all of you God's blessings as you round off another year. Enjoy a few beers. Have fun planning your Christmas lunch for your family and friends. But also take some time to reflect on the joy and peace we may receive through Christ's birth, and the fountain of good it brings to our lives. Thank God for the blessing of Christmas. Don't let the physical 'attractions' distract you from the true meaning of Christmas, something worthy of celebration.