Luke records for us one of the most familiar passages in all the Scriptures, the birth of Christ. It begins, “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed…And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem…to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, begin great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:1-7).
We have in this passage the record of the very first Christmas. We continue to acknowledge this sacred event even today, over 2,000 years later. But has it retained its significance, or have we allowed it to be transformed into something very different than those early observers saw? I’m sure that there will be many gatherings on Christmas day characterized by feasts of every kind and the exchange of gifts one to another. It is, after all, the consummation of many preparations including outdoor lights, decorated trees, exhaustive shopping sprees, viewing the annual array of Christmas movies, and social gatherings of every kind packed into a very busy “holiday” season.
But Christmas is about Christ. Without Christ there is no Christmas. Yet, his name seldom surfaces as we gather around the tree to exchange gifts or around the table to share in our bounty. Let’s face it, it takes work to keep Christ in the forefront of our Christmas celebrations. The timeless message of the true Christmas and the joy of its promise, a Savior, are eclipsed by the trappings of our modern Christmas celebrations as well as the sentimental yearnings for Christmases past which are enshrined in our memories.
Luke holds that promise before us. “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 Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:8-11; emphasis added).
Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior, and the unveiling of God’s plan of redemption for those in the bondage of sin. It is, indeed, good tidings! Have you received Christ? Is he at the center of your Christmas celebrations or is he a stranger to your festivities and looking on from the shadows?
From the Chaplain 