Keeping Christ in Christmas

     Christmas approaches very fast! It's not uncommon anymore to hear "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas". What happened? Jesus is no longer the reason for the season any more. Now, it's true that we should celebrate Christ birth and resurrection every day, not just on the "specific days"; but when did it become too much to hear, "Merry Christmas!"
     A couple days ago, I watched a video of what kids thought Christmas was about, and who they thought Jesus was, what kind of gifts He was brought...etc.. It was extremely disappointing to see how far mis-lead these kids were. You heard some of them say that Jesus was brought lots of money, and clothes; and you heard some kids say that Jesus came as a king riding on a camel. It's very unfortunate that some kids aren't taught the real meaning of Christmas.
     Last week, after going to the store, an older man greeted me with, "Happy Holidays!" I almost said Happy Holidays back, but stopped myself and said, "Merry Christmas!" instead. He looked at me like I was crazy, and moved on. I couldn't help but wonder, what changed? Why have we stopped using Christ in Christmas? Christmas isn't a time for presents, trees, lights, goodies, and such. (although that's fun too!) But, the real reason why we celebrate Christmas, is because we celebrate Jesus coming down to this earth, in the form of "Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." (Luke 2:12,16)
     "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night, and behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you; You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:7-14)
     Let's not forget the real reason why we celebrate Christmas! And this Christmas season, let's keep Christ in the Center! After all, He's the reason for the season! :) Have a wonderful Christmas everyone!