But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. Gal 4:4-5 (NKJ)
How will you celebrate Christmas this year? Because of the current economic downturn many are predicting that this year not a lot of money will be spent on presents. Some are suggesting that as the economic woes continue, they will compound the economic downturn. Others have suggested that perhaps because greed has gotten the USA into this quandary, one should live a more ascetic life. Still others imply that only the government can get us out of this mess.
Pardon me, as I come at this whole issue in another way. Praise God that you parents have an opportunity to teach your children about An Old Fashioned Christmas, and praise God as your children may focus your attention on other issues beside the latest video game and learn about An Old Fashioned Christmas.
An Old Fashioned Christmas was never about what you could give to your neighbor, and thus reveal your love for both them and God, but An Old Fashioned Christmas, was first and foremost about God’s love for you!
The gift given at the Savior’s birth was your deliverance from bondage to Satan, enslavement to sin and the triumph over our sinful flesh that is conditioned to think by the caprices and fads of this world.
It seems however that this celebration is no longer focused on the Gift of God, in the person of His son Jesus who will save His people from their sin, but on the gifts of people. And specifically on what will I get?
How expensive is that gift? Is this all I get?
In my childhood when I was tempted to complain that all I received for Christmas was clothing, my parents would remind that they did not even get those gifts as a child.
Pastor, does that mean we should not give and receive gifts? Boy, you are a spoil sport! No that is not what I have in mind with the expression that invited you to celebrate An Old Fashioned Christmas.
Rather I invite each family who reads this missive to celebrate this Christmas by giving priority to those things that are most important in this life, and in the life to come.
On that last great day when Christ returns in glory, how important will “things” be that now seem that we cannot possibly do without them?
On that great day only one thing will matter to you and your children and grandchildren. And that one thing will not be a toy, or a new cellphone, or even a pair of socks but whether or not there exists a personal relationship with God our creator through Our Lord Jesus Christ.
May your home celebrate An Old Fashioned Christmas this year and always.
Joyfully I remain,
