Not So Secret Secret
In our culture, Christmas means buying stuff, getting stuff, reindeer and Santa Claus. In a few places there is a hint, as to the reason this one day of the year is celebrated. Even then, Christmas is confined to images of a pretty baby within an artistic manger scene, wise men, shepherds and starlit skies. So what gives? Is Christmas simply a day to feel good and be with family? Let me suggest there is a somber side to Christmas where you will find nothing to feel good about or celebrate. A truth about Christmas most would like to not think about and keep secret.
Elaborate Distraction
This day of the year amidst all the colorful lights, cheerful music and holiday wrapped gifts, is more of an elaborate distraction than a celebration. A fantasy with the intent to avoid the truth. And, what is this truth that people do not want to talk about? That Christmas has everything to do with sin. A day, a point in time that became necessary because of sin -- the corruption within every person. This is why Christmas had to happen.
He Saves
On that first Christmas years ago, our Creator God sent us someone and tells us why Christmas had to happen. The Bible says, "his name is Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Regardless of what you think the meaning of Christmas is, ignoring this does not change the facts behind Christmas. And, it certainly is no secret. For millennia the Bible has declared the full unvarnished story about Christmas.
A story that began long ago and continues to this day; a story of people who sinfully reject their Creator. From this dark side of Christmas, comes the understanding of a person's need, a need to be saved, freed from "their sins." Those who recognize their need and turn, will be the last ones who want to keep the dark side of Christmas a secret. Christmas leads to the cross. Jesus entered the world on Christmas day to one day die on the cross for the sins of those who believe. Now this is the Christmas story and that is something to celebrate!
“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
“Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus” (Luke 1:30-31).
"Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Acts 2:21).
"God sent his Son [Jesus] into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son" (John 3:17-18).
