C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S

Christmas is a time of bright lights, Christmas trees, decorations, shopping and gifts. A time when people think mainly of things they want. But really, there can be no Christmas without Christ. Below are of some words that represent the Christmas meaning using the acronym CHRISTMAS.

C -Christ
God gave the first Christmas present, and said "you shall call his name Jesus"

H – Heart
Christmas should be a heart affair. God gave from his heart -he gave the best he had - his only Son. We must believe and receive Jesus into our heart. God says "My son, give me your heart" (your whole life). (Proverbs 23:26)

R -Ruler
The Jewish people expected an earthly ruler to come and save them, but Jesus didn't set up a kingdom on this earth to rule over. Instead, He wants to rule in our hearts. One day, when Jesus comes again, He will come as ruler. The Bible says Jesus will be King of Kings and Lord of Lords and that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2:10-11) We don't need to wait until then. Let us allow Him to be our ruler right now!

I- Inn
There was no room at the inn for Mary (and Jesus!). I am sure the innkeeper didn't realise who he was turning away. Many today are like that innkeeper. Jesus is knocking at the door of our life. Will you turn Him away, saying there is no room?

S- Star
A star led the wise men to Jesus. Today we have the Holy Spirit to lead us closer to Jesus. We need to ask the Holy Spirit to fill our life so that we will know more about Jesus.

T – Tree
We decorate and hang gifts on trees at Christmas. God hung his gift on a tree - the cross. But many of those looking on didn't admire God’s gift; instead they mocked and laughed at Him. And yet He prayed, "Father, forgive them,for they don't know what they are doing".

M- Manger
Jesus left His home in heaven. What a contrast between the glory of heavenand a manger -an animal's feed box. How Jesus humbled himself and was prepared to give up everything! He didn't come as a master, but as a servant. Those of us who want to follow Him are told, "Let this attitude be in you which was also in Christ... who took upon Him the form of a servant..." (Philipians2:5-9)

A -Angel
The angels came with glad tidings of great joy. They told the shepherds where and how to find Jesus. Today we have this ministry -to share the good news about Jesus, and we must tell people where and how to find Jesus.

S -Saviour
The real reason Jesus came to this earth was to be our Saviour. Explain why Jesus had to die, to take the punishment that we deserve for our sins.

Meanwhile, I know everyone is busy at this time of year, no matter which hemisphere you live in. But I hope you'll also take/make the time for silence, reflection, and rejoicing in the Saviour's birth. I know of so many people who are going through hard times just now--some are life and death situations, others are grieving, anxious, sad or alone. My prayer is that whether this is one of your best or worst Christmases on the outside, nothing will keep it from being one of the most meaningful on the inside. God Bless you as you celebrate this Christmas!

O Come, Let Us Adore Him...and let us truly give our hearts to Jesus in this Christmas.