It's Christmas and then it's not!

The buildup has almost been unbearable. Some store had Christmas items in stock in July. Last week I walked into one of those retailers and their Christmas section was disassembled and relegated to one short isle both sides. It was almost like Christmas had never happened and there was still a little over a week to go.

Years ago while in college and seminary, I worked retail to help support myself. I think everybody needs to work retail at Christmas one season. It sure does give you a new perspective on people and their “holiday cheer.” Once finals were done I would take on as many hours as possible to earn a little extra. That meant working Christmas Eve until 6pm being off Christmas day and back the day after Christmas for returns and new sales with Christmas money etc. It was busy but I was young. Yet, by the time Christmas Day arrived I was just glad for the day off. That is a sorry commentary on me but it was true. I wish I could say it does not happen still.

This year we have read again the ancient words of Isaiah and others telling us of the Messiah and his birth. We have heard the angels say “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace and good will toward men.” We have seen the shepherds come and witness God wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. We have looked forward to the visit of Magi from the east bearing gifts that foreshadow the life of the Messiah. Yet, here it is Christmas Day and in but a few short minutes it’s over. The presents are unwrapped, the mess is piled up and taken out and…well…we…sit. Maybe somewhere in your mind is the thought, “is that all there is?” It may still be Christmas day but now it’s not Christmas!

It seems like a lot to do about nothing in some ways. If what I described above is all that has happened then it is a lot to do about nothing. But that is not all there is to do nor is that all there is. God moved into the neighborhood not for a visit but to live here with us. To share life and living though us. It seems so simple but we know there is more to it than that. All of this was to change everything. Your Christmas preparations changed the look of your home. The feeling when you are there. Maybe like me you used it as an opportunity to clean up and get rid of some yard “debris” that should have been gone ages ago. Christmas changed the outside and inside of your home. You many have special sweaters or outfits you wear at Christmas or a Santa hat. Even your outside is changed by Christmas but then it’s over. More suddenly than it came on it’s done and soon to be packed away until next year. That is not God’s plan for Christmas.

God’s plan is indeed to change everything. God has come to us. We tried so long to get to him but could never make it. So, God came to us. God is with us Emmanuel, moved into the neighborhood. That changes everything. My question is has it changed you? Is Christ one day or everyday? I don’t think any of the characters of the Christmas story were ever the same. That’s what Christ does or should. But for some of us it’s Christmas and then it’s not. Let’s be honest that is not change. That is NOT why God is here. Christ changes everything. Has he changed you even this Christmas? It’s not too late to jump all in. I do pray so for both of us!

In HIS Service and Yours,                                                                   

Bro G