A Christmas Thought...

“Jesus is the Reason for the Season.” That’s what good Christian people say…That’s what they say about this season. When most people are worried about the presents, celebrations, and lights, we as Christians should be the ones to remember Jesus. But do we? 

Or are we, like everyone else, worried about the presents, celebrations, and lights…just sticking Jesus in there too? Or is He truly all we are focusing on this season? Every season?

As we set up the manger scene this year, I was struck with the fact that each piece in the manger scene is focused on one thing: The baby in the manger. Every single piece is looking with awe on Jesus. 

Joseph stands protectively over Mary, but is focused on Jesus. The wisemen present their gifts, focused on Jesus. The shepherd holds a lamb, focused on Jesus. 

And so it is with us. We protect those we love, we present gifts to Jesus, we comfort and hold those who need compassion, but unless we are doing it focused on Jesus, it means nothing. Like a manger scene without the baby. 

Is Jesus missing or stuck in the corner of your Christmas season? Or is He front and center, the focus of everything you are doing? 

Because He deserves front and center. Not just because He was born, but because there is a shadow upon the manger…in the shape of a cross. And we wonder why in this glorious moment of new life, there is the feeling of a greater purpose in all this, and the feeling of pain. But, pain is what it took. Death is what it took. Death of a perfect man, to give us the joy and peace that can fill us today. It’s because of this baby born, and his death that we are able to look with hope to the future! 

And so, with all this in mind, are we focusing on Jesus?