What Does Christmas Mean?

If I were posting on social media the answer to the title above — “What does Christmas mean?” I might say:  “Christmas means I am now in an exclusive relationship!” Many people often post on social media platforms when they’ve committed themselves to an exclusive relationship. Next, we may enter a period of dating and getting to know one another. The Bible says the end goal of dating relationships is marriage; a permanent, forever relationship.  

This may be a helpful and relevant way to describe to people who don’t know? What’s the big deal with Christmas and Christians? Why is Christmas more than caroling and presents under the tree? People who enjoy the holiday but are unclear the real meaning of Christmas — let them know — Christmas is God’s love story for the world. 

Everyone can understand — Knowing Jesus in a personal relationship is way different than knowing about Baby Jesus born in a manager. Jesus born in Bethlehem, Christmas Day,  means God is forever pursuing us (everyone) with His love (John 3:16). 

Many married couples today fondly remember meeting for the first time. Even after 53 years of marriage, Connie and I can review, sparks were flying and music was playing as our eyes met for the first time. We believe love was born and blessed by God. We dated, growing closer, deepening our relationship, until finally a wedding was announced. 

The mystery of the Church for many people we know is they’ve never personally connected the relationship part of God; knowing God in an exclusive relationship (like marriage) via the Christ child, Baby Jesus, Savior of the world. We enjoy the familiar food, family, and presents under the tree each Christmas, but miss the real meaning: Jesus, the real GIFT for all the world. 

Join us this weekend Journey Sat@6pm/Sun@10:30am for our Christmas message. I’ll have the traditional verses on the screen. We’ll sing and share Christmas songs which are bright and merry. But I promise to also guide our thoughts along the way — Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). 

Invite a guest to join us. Someone maybe who does not have plans to be in Church for Christmas. This may be the best GIFT you could share with anyone. Go God. 

Merry Christmas.