I think we can all relate to the fact that there is something special about Christmastime. There are plenty of songs about Christmas that mention the fact that we’re all “better people” at Christmas, or that it’s the time of year when people act like they ought to act the rest of the year.
I know that the holidays magnify the pain, and grief, and loneliness too. But the fact is there is something special in the air at Christmastime.
I found out what it is; and it’s not what you think. It’s not about the “season” or the cookies or the songs or the decorations. And unless you’re five, it’s not about the presents.
I was reading in Nehemiah about God’s children who had just worked really hard to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. It had come at great cost with a lot of opposition and sacrifice.
And they got to the end of it all and had a party. But they had a party by offering more sacrifices.
They gave.
And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away. Nehemiah 12:43
There is no joy, like the joy of giving.
And that’s why we love Christmas. It feels good to give. Elf was wrong – the best way to spread Christmas cheer is to give.
The Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' Acts 20:35
I guess he ought to know. I bet Jesus felt like Christmas all the time.
Tim
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