In the Christmas Spirit?

Many times at this time of the year we hear about being in the Christmas spirit.  Radio stations begin to play Christmas music (non stop), Christmas movies are on everywhere, decorations and lights surround us, church services and events are focused around Christmas themes, but still we struggle to get into the Christmas spirit. Why? I believe its because we forget that the Spirit of Christmas lives within us.  Christmas is summed up in one word…Emmanuel – God with us.  We celebrate Christmas because it is the occasion upon which we remember the birth of Jesus Christ – the promised messiah, the savior of all, God in the flesh.  Through Jesus God came near, dwelt among us, died for our sins and rose for our justification.  And now for all who have believed in Jesus, turning from sin to turn their lives over to him, the Spirit of God has moved into our lives…not only is God with us, he is within us.   (Matthew 1:20-23;John 1:1-18; Romans 4:24,25; Ephesians 1:3-12)

Secondly I think it is because we refuse to worship Jesus as God…we are threatened by his coming near instead of being thrilled by it.  We see this great contrast in the story of the Magi as they sought Jesus, found him, fell down and worshiped.  However Herod, the Jewish King at the time, sought to kill him.  (Matthew 2:1-12)  Sometimes we become so focused on our little kingdoms that we fail to consider the great privilege and joy that we are a part of God’s kingdom.  “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (I Peter 2:9)

Let us seek to enjoy and not just endure this Christmas season…may God daily remind us that the Spirit of Christmas lives within us, He has come near and has taken up residence to shine through our lives.  May we ever be about worshiping him who has made us a part of his kingdom and may we use this season to share his grace with all whom we encounter.  The wonder and worship of God with us will truly release us to be in the Christmas Spirit.