Often times during the holidays we often forget what the real meaning is behind Christmas. The consumerism that has overtaken our culture can sometimes make us forget the meaning behind the giving of gifts and sharing time with others. The holiday of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Although his birth may not have fallen on the exact date that the holiday is celebrated, this is the day that we have chosen to celebrate it. Often times, the business of the holidays can overwhelm us and can make us forget the true reason for the season.
The story begins with the virgin conception in a woman named Mary. Her husband-to-be, Joseph, was alarmed at what had happened until the angel Gabriel came to him and assured him that he should not be alarmed and that she would give birth to the one who would save us all (Luke 1:28). So with Mary carrying the savior of the world, the ruler of the Roman world, Caesar Augustus, called for a census that brought the two back to Bethlehem. As they arrived in Bethlehem, the time to have the baby had come. Unfortunately there was no room at the inn and they had to make stay within a small stable (Luke 2:1-7).
With the birth of Jesus. Various shepherds in the fields nearby were came upon by the angel Gabriel and were told to go see the child who had just been born. Along with the shepherds in the fields, three magi came from the east following a star that led them directly to the Bethlehem where Jesus was staying with his parents. They bore gifts of frankincense, murr, and gold (Matthew 2:1-12). Not knowing the future that would be held for Jesus, Mary and Joseph raised him like a normal child.
As Jesus grew older, he knew the burden he had to bear on the cross. The reason he came to earth was to put to death the sin for everyone forever. As he lived a blameless life, he poured out his body on the cross for all of us to get to heaven one day if we accept him as our true savior. This holiday season, remember the birth of our savior and the significance and influence he has in our daily lives.
