It’s easy to overlook the spiritual meaning of Christmas in the midst of holiday hustle and bustle. The majority of our time is spent on long lines in the stores, cooking, cleaning and much more. We tend to forget about the joy and comfort the day brings to our hearts. The preparation for the holiday consumes all of our energy. By the time Christmas arrives, we are physically exhausted, emotionally depleted, and we feel spiritually empty. But it doesn’t have to be this way; instead, let’s make time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus’ birth, and celebrate His presence in our lives. Unless we are intentional, the busyness of the season will divert us from the spiritual experience.
When we feel the Holy Spirit of Christmas, the season takes on a whole new meaning. I’m reminded of one of the most poignant scenes in the Christmas movie, Mr. Krueger’s Christmas. Jimmy Stewart plays Willie Krueger, a lonely man whose wife passed away and who lives with a cat in a basement.
On Christmas Eve, Willie walks over to the nativity set on the night table and picks up the porcelain manger holding baby Jesus. He is then transported to the inn where people gathered around baby Jesus. At this time, Willie realizes that no one can see or hear him except for baby Jesus. In a heartfelt moment he says to Jesus, “Thank you for everything you have done for me. As long as I can remember you have been right by my side. I never forget when you walked with me for those first few hours after I lost Martha. I have always been able to count on you. When I felt dark inside, you were right there every time.”
When we approach Christmas in the spirit of humility and with gratitude for Jesus, we celebrate the true meaning of the holiday. In the Gospel narrative, Mary, the Angels and the Wise Men sang praise to the newborn King of Israel. In this spirit, let us worship Him, and embrace the greatest gift of the season, Jesus.
Lord, we pause from the busyness of this holiday season to worship You and to give thanks for who You are in our lives.
