This morning a thought came to my mind, what would Christmas morning be like without gifts? First of all, most would enjoy a good night sleep before going to church or sleep later after attending a midnight service. Once awake, the distractions of presents might actual promote quality conversations as individuals reflect upon the previous year. As breakfast or brunch is served, discussions would likely move toward meaningful topics, free from typical superficial talk about who received the best gift and which family member got the shaft or least favored status.
Without the rush of getting back to play with your newest toy, the birth of the Messiah might become real to young children. Instead of being brain washed by traditions of Christmas, Colossians 2:8, words from the Bible would fall upon fertile soil, Matthew 13:23, opening the door for faith to prosper, Romans 10:17. Thus, Christmas wouldn’t be about what you got for Christmas. Rather, hearts and minds would be transformed from “Thank you Santa, to Thank you God for the promise of Matthew 1:23.”
If I struggle with balancing a traditional Christmas with worshiping baby Jesus, I’m sure I am not alone. My Christmas Day prayer is that I will point my children toward the true reason for this season. When the sunsets on the 25th, families shouldn’t have to wait another calender year to celebrate the birth of Christ. Rather, the Spirit of Christmas can and should be kept alive through the power of the Holy Spirit, 2 Peter 1:3-4, given to all those who believe. Although the day is now December 26th, its never too soon to start preparing your hearts for a Christmas without gifts, devoted to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 