Your Daily Devotional for December 25, 2006

 

December 25, 2006

 

 

The True Meaning of Christmas

by Dr. Paul Chappell

 

 

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 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 2:8-11

 

 

Today is Christmas Day! By now, the decorations are all up, the presents are wrapped, families are gathering together, and kids and adults alike wait in anticipation to open their gifts. On this joyous, sacred, and holy day, let us take a moment to remember the first Christmas celebration.

 

As we see in our text today, after Mary had given birth to baby Jesus, the angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds who were in the fields. The angel announced Christ’s birth and told the shepherds to go see the Child. Then we see in verses 13-14, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

 

Suddenly, the sky was filled with angels who were singing praises to God and glorifying His name. This was an exciting occasion! How beautiful it must have been to listen to a host of angels singing praises to God!

 

This “first Christmas” was filled with praises to the Lord! While getting gifts and spending time with family are a special part of the celebration, decide to keep Christ as the focal point of your Christmas and celebrate the true meaning of this holiday season.

 

Two women who were having lunch in an elegant hotel were approached by a mutual friend who asked the occasion for the meal. One lady replied, "We are celebrating the birth of my baby boy." "But where is he?" inquired the friend. "Oh," said the mother, "you didn't think I'd bring him, did you?" What a picture of the way the world treats Jesus at Christmas!

 

Amidst all the excitement of family and presents, remember and give thanks to God for sending His Son to die for us. God’s Word says in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” What wondrous love was shown toward us when God gave His most precious gift—His Son—to die and pay sin’s price for us so that we might spend eternity with Him! We should praise Him and thank Him for His wonderful gift!

 

Take time today to read Luke 1-2, the Christmas story, and spend time with your family reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. Then, thank God for offering His Son—the greatest gift that was given! Have a Merry Christmas!

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