The wise men and the angels understood joy in Christ. Maybe they didn’t have the modern pressures of busyness during the holidays of today, but the wise men probably tired of following that star such a long distance. And the angels already knew Jesus. They must have been excited that mankind would finally get to meet their Savior. Luke 2:10 tells us “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.” And the wise men celebrated in Matthew 2:10. “When they saw the star they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” (KJV)
I love the joy of the Christmas season. I grew up the youngest of eight children, but my parents always managed to make the holidays special. We didn’t always get exactly what we wanted, but we had fun. They didn’t go into debt, but my mom was a bargain hunter and an accomplished seamstress. She held and attended garage sales before they were popular, claiming she got the idea from Hollywood actresses who sold their old dresses.
I have tried to teach my children and grandchildren the same joy at Christmas. When people complain about the cost or the commercialism, I want to say, “It’s all about Jesus.” If you pray and trust God, He will provide your gifts at a reasonable cost. And if that doesn’t happen, learn a new hobby and cook or make your gifts.
Since the birth of the B’s (Brody, Bryce and Barrett who are now three), Christmas has been even more of an adventure. Two years ago, Brody took the batteries out of a car we didn’t know had batteries, ate one, and gave one to his cousin Bryce to eat. Thankfully, a nickel allergy was the only side effect. Last year Brody used a tablet to put a graphic educational film showing childbirth on our 50-inch screen television during gift giving. I can’t wait for this year’s adventures to begin.
Christmas is about life. A savior was born and we celebrate! It is about giving. He gave to so many during his life and gave us the greatest gift possible when He died for our sins. And it is about joy. Your family and friends will never again be the same as they are this year. Embrace this Christmas and make the most of what you have. Don’t worry about what you don’t have or what you can’t afford. God will bless your life and your gift giving if you allow Him to be a part of your Christmas.
