Prepare for His Coming

   “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is the Messiah and Lord.” (Luke 2: 10 – 11)

   As we turn the calendar to December we begin preparations for Christmas.  Will we bow to the secular and put our emphasis on gifts, football games and having fun or will we prepare to welcome our Lord in faith and thanksgiving?

   Most of us will likely do a bit of both.  It’s difficult to ignore the materialism associated with the holiday, especially if there are children who are looking forward to Santa’s visit.  Yet, we need to keep focused on the true reason we celebrate.  It has nothing to do with fancy wrapping paper, parties and such; it is to celebrate the birth of the Savior of the world.

   As Christians I believe we should do our best to “Keep Christ in Christmas” as the saying goes.  So let’s try a few things to do that.

   Let’s remember that the appearance of the Santa Claus we see everywhere in this country was created by Coca Cola in the 1920’s to help sell their products, having nothing to do with the true meaning of Christmas.  

   Instead let’s remember the real St. Nicholas, the 4^th Century Bishop of Myra who tradition holds began the practice of anonymous gift giving to those in need.

   Let’s remember the gifts of the Magi; gold for a King; frankincense for Deity and Myrrh, an oil used in preparation for burial in Jesus’ time.

   When the store clerk wishes us “Happy Holidays” let’s reply “Merry Christmas”.  When someone talks about the “Winter Holiday”, let’s ask them what they are celebrating if not the birth of Jesus.

   Blow-up snowmen in the yards may be cute but how about displaying a Nativity Scene instead.  Just remember that baby Jesus doesn’t go in the manger until Christmas Eve.

   Most importantly let us go to the altar and kneel in reverence and to give honor to the new born King.

   Christmas celebrates the greatest gift of all; a Savior who frees us from our sins and offers us the opportunity of eternal joy in heaven.  Let’s ignore the commercialism as best we can and celebrate the birth of our Lord.

Lord, help us keep you in mind during this season.

Help us prepare our hearts for your birth.

Remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Let us praise and celebrate Your birth.

Amen