Let’s just all acknowledge, that there are some things about the Christmas season that are…complicated. Yeah, it’s a time of joy. It’s a time of giving gifts to those we love (and those we suspect will get us something). It’s a time when we hopefully gather with family and friends. But all that brings complications also. It seems like if you are doing well in life – plenty of money to spend; time off from the job, or retired; loving relationships – it’s a great time of year. But let’s pause for a moment and acknowledge that for many people, maybe most people, we are not in that ideal situation. It is stressful deciding who you can afford to buy for, and what you can afford to buy. Lots of people have to work during the holidays and even on Christmas Eve &/or Christmas Day. And remember, those working people are often serving people who are rushed and stressed, whether in a retail store or a restaurant. Then there are plenty of us whose Christmas memories bring sadness because of loved ones who are no longer around to make new memories with. Add to all of that, the fact that there are so many people who find themselves poor, isolated, sick, and oppressed in various ways. This is a time of year when people who struggle the other 50 weeks of the year really notice it. But there is where the real meaning of Christmas is important to remember and to tell. It is a time to remember, reconnect to, or even meet Jesus Christ.
I’m not talking about the baby Jesus in a manger surrounded by shepherds, wise men, Santa, reindeer, etc. I’m talking about the real Jesus who was born to help people who struggle. I’m talking about the Jesus who, in one of his first sermons declared that “I have been anointed to bring good news to the poor…proclaim release to those who are captive…recovery of sight to the blind, and let the oppressed go free.” (Luke 4:18) In other words, Jesus’ purpose – the reason he was born in the first place – is to help those who struggle financially, socially, emotionally and physically. So if you are struggling, Jesus came here especially for you!!! YOU ARE THE REASON FOR THE SEASON!! I know it doesn’t seem like, because many of those who identify as Christian are busy enjoying themselves and celebrating Him. But trust me, Jesus came for you! Just read the rest of the gospel story. AFTER he was born, Jesus spent his time, helping, healing, forgiving, feeding and hanging out with those who were struggling. And He still wants to do that. And Jesus wants to inspire His followers to do the same.
The ELL Word 