For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isa. 9:6)(KJV)As we celebrate the holidays each year, we hear all kinds of favorite Christmas songs on the radio: songs like "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree", "White Christmas" and "Winter Wonderland" to name a few. One of my favorites has always been "It's the Most Wonderful Time Of The Year", because for me, Christmas has always been a special time. When I was a kid it was the excitement of Santa Claus, Christmas presents, lights, decorations and trees. I remember drawing pictures of Christmas trees and Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer. I was so excited on Christmas Eve, wondering when Santa was going to come. My brother and I would look at the sky and imagine seeing his flying deer and sleigh.
But as I grew up, it became a special time more for the Christ of Christmas than all the other stuff. Oh, I still love all the decorations and the songs and the family get-togethers, but now I have a better appreciation for the true meaning of Christmas: the coming of the Christ Child. We can be excited about the fact that Jesus came. He left all His glory on high and became like us, born in a lowly manger so that He could make a way for us to be restored to the Father. Just think of it...the King of kings and Lord of lords came to earth as a poor, unknown baby in a little town called Bethlehem. He sacrificed all His power and authority for us because He is wonderful. As He lay in the manger, He was beginning a journey that He knew would end at Calvary. God loved us enough to give us His only Son as the very first Christmas Gift. (Jn. 3:16)
So as you celebrate the season this year, remember what all the celebration is truly supposed to be about. If you get a little stressed out by all the shopping and parties, etc., turn to the Prince of Peace for some much needed peace and rest. When you need someone you can confide in, someone who will listen to your hurts, turn to Jesus---the Counselor. When you feel scared and alone like a little child, just turn around and let your heavenly Father put his arms around you and protect you. He wants to do all those things, because He is wonderful!
So as you sing or hear "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" and other songs of the season, rejoice in the fact that you know the One who is Wonderful! If you don't know Him, contact me and I'll gladly help you to accept the best Christmas present of all time. It will be the most wonderful decision of your life!
Merry Christmas!
Joey C.