I open my blinds every morning. I enjoy looking outside, whether it’s a sunny day, or a cloudy one. The light of a new day reminds me that I get to start over again. New beginnings are important to me because I mess up frequently; I can easily judge others unfairly or say things I later regret. Sometimes I forget who I am as a redeemed child of God. Years ago, when my teenage daughters would leave our house, I’d say, “Remember Whose you are!” In other words, “Remember that you’re God’s child and you’re representing our family!” Did they always remember? No! But just like me, they knew that when they messed up, God’s forgiveness was available.
For Believers, Christmas should be about a tree. A Christmas tree likely comes to mind, but that’s not it. This tree is the one on which Jesus died. Although parties and family gatherings are wonderful, Jesus didn’t come to earth so we could celebrate and purchase gifts every December. He came to live as an example for us, and to die as the atonement for sin. A few years ago, my daughter purchased a cross as a topper for our Christmas tree. It’s a beautiful reminder of the most important part of Christmas; the birth of the One who came to redeem us.
This Christmas, as you’re celebrating Jesus’ birth, I hope you’ll also remember His victory over sin and death, which means eternal life for us. The words of O Little Town of Bethlehem sum it up well. I’m a music lover, but the lyrics are powerful when spoken aloud.
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
the silent stars go by. Yet in the dark street shineth the everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
For Christ is born of Mary and gathered all above. While mortals sleep,
the angels keep their watch of wondering love. O morning stars, together proclaim
the holy birth. And praises sing to God, the King and peace to men on earth.
How silently, how silently the wondrous Gift is given! So God imparts to human hearts
the blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming but in this world of sin.
Where meek souls will receive Him still the dear Christ enters in.
O holy Child of Bethlehem descend to us, we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in
be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell.
Oh, come to us, abide with us our Lord Immanuel!
Susan Easttom, Director of Family Ministries
