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December 2004
Transformed by Christmas
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December 2004
Transformed by Christmas
It was two days before Christmas. There was a long line at the post office as people were trying frantically to use overnight mail to get Christmas packages to people on time. A woman with three little girls in tow finally reached the counter. "Can you get this package to Phoenix, Arizona tomorrow?" she asked.
"I can, lady, but it will cost you."
"How much?"
"47.40"
"Gracious," she said. "That's a lot, but I've got to do it. This present is for my father. It has to be there before Christmas...because you see, Christmas is also his birthday."
"Man! What a bum deal that is!" said the postal clerk. "I sure am glad I don't know anyone born on Christmas."
Someone in the line spoke up. "I sure am glad I do!"
(Advent Sermons, Dr. James W. Moore, Christian Globe Networks, Inc. 2004, 0-000-0000-15)
People around the world are anticipating Christmas day. Christmas decorations have been up for some time now as merchants try to persuade the public to purchase special gifts for special people. They encourage us to shop early and often! Dinners are being planned and schedules are being compared to see how families and friends can get together to celebrate this special season. There is an excitement to this holiday that is unlike any other time.
Yet, Christmas is so much more than a holiday. No matter how meaningful it is to do all the things associated with Christmas, none of them comes close to conveying the depth that is Christmas. Observing Christmas traditions is not the same as celebrating Christmas. Christmas without Christ may be festive but it is not the resounding life-giving, hope-filled event that can change our world and us. Knowing the Christ of Christmas opens us to the wonder and awe of a relationship with God that brings to us profound joy and peace. Christmas is more than a holiday; it is a transformative event!
As we gather to celebrate Christmas, let us allow Christ to be born in us. We do that when we accept that God loves us and has acted to remove all that would hinder our relationship with our Creator. Christ is God's way for humankind to resolve anger, guilt, isolation and destructive living patterns. Enjoy the traditions, gather with family and friends, but allow the power of Love to make it be for us a true Christmas.
Grace and Peace,
David