Scripture informs the observant that Jesus was certainly not born on Christmas Day, and there is no mention of Yuletide celebration, decorations, gift-giving, and twinkling lights. But, as Christians, it is so very appropriate we participate in these.
It matters far less when Jesus was born and far more that he was born. Jesus descended from heaven as fully man and fully God—and fully achieved our Father’s promise from the beginning to provide escape from the punishment sinful and fallen mankind deserved. He decorated an evil world with righteousness, revealed the Kingdom of Heaven, and gave the ultimate gift of sacrificing His life for our redemption. What better cause for celebration than the birth of our beloved Lord and Savior?
Seeing Christmas lights, my thoughts are drawn to both an historic star leading three wise men to a lowly stable in Bethlehem where a manger served as a makeshift crib for the greatest king the world will ever know, and to the light He brought to the world at His birth. As I observe lights strung together, so do I also see how His light passes from one to another as He illuminates us for His divine purpose filled with love and mercy. One string plugs to another, the light passes and grows, symbolic of how His light illuminates those who are called through the spirit. Our candlelight service demonstrates this holy light spreading one to another. Remind yourself of these things when viewing delightful displays of radiance this blessed season, remembering the reason.
Jesus, You are so worthy of celebration not only at Christmas, but each moment of every day. Remind us when we glimpse light strings that You brought to a darkened world wonderful light that will never be dimmed. Thank you for your gift. May our lives be our gift back to You. Amen.