Christ in Christmas? Scott Pauley

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2511-11 Christmas Blessings_L
As I write these words, I am sitting in my study at home watching snow fall gently on the already blanketed ground outside. I can hear the familiar strain of Bing Crosby’s voice singing “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas,” and for the first time this year, I am beginning to feel what many call the Christmas spirit. The sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas are everywhere as we approach December 25.

All About Jesus

Over the last two weeks, we have been studying God’s Word in Israel, the land where it all happened. There were no Christmas lights, no carols being sung in the streets, and very little of what we associate with our annual celebration. Yet our thoughts have been filled with great thoughts of Jesus, what He did, and why He came.
It is a reminder that Christmas is not shopping, gift giving, family gatherings, holiday feasts, or children’s stories. There is nothing inherently wrong with any of those things. Traditions can be very enjoyable…as long as the truth does not get lost in it all.
Christmas is about Christ! The Father’s gift. The Son’s birth. The Spirit’s testimony. The world’s hope. It is all about Jesus.
 
You don’t “keep Christ in Christmas” – you find Christmas in Christ. We discover true wonder and joy in the person and work of the Lord Jesus. Just days ago we stood in the shepherd’s fields on the outskirts of Bethlehem and looked at the landscape where an angel announced: Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). That’s Christmas! 
 
We cannot all go to Bethlehem this Christmas, but we can all come nearer to Christ. Take the time to look up the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah (Click HERE for a list of 55). Read the gospel accounts of our Lord’s birth. Meditate on the goodness and mercy of God to mankind. Join Heaven’s choir and sing, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). Share the good news with others. That’s Christmas!
 
Tomorrow we begin a special series on our daily Enjoying the Journey podcast called “Christmas Blessings.” We hope you will listen and spread the word. It is my prayer that you and your family will know the blessing of Christ this Christmas as never before.

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