Rethink the Season

Daily Scripture Threshing for Monday, December 16, 2024

Today's Text: Luke 2:1-20

Key Verse: Luke 2:10 (ESV): "And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.""

As we approach Christmas Day, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. The elaborate decorations, expensive gifts, decorations, lightings, and festive atmosphere can distract us from the true meaning of this holy season. We must pause to reflect on the event of Christ's birth which we now celebrate, we are reminded of the significance of this special day.

Since the day in which Pope Julius I authorized December 25 to mark and celebrate the birthday of Jesus in A.D. 353, it has become an event that is grossly taken amiss. Yes, till this day, the commercialization of Christmas has led to a focus on material gifts and indulgences, rather than the spiritual significance of the historical event. But, today, we are called upon to rethink the season. We are reminded that Christmas is not just about presents and decorations, but about the gift of salvation that Jesus is and brings.

Let us return to the story of the first Christmas and reallign ourselves with the true essence of the birth of Christ. When the angels announced to the shepherds to "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:10), they presented to the world a message of hope that God is with us, despite our loss, pain, struggles and fears. It's a clear moment of divine interposition in the affairs of me, bringing joy and salvation to all people. Jesus was born to die for our sins so that we might find salvation through His death.

Therefore, as we celebrate Christmas this year, let us rethink the season and refocus on the reason Christ came to this world. He came to seek and save lost humanity and redeem us from the curse of the law. Let us not get caught up in the commercialization going on all over the world. Instead, let us celebrate the gift of salvation that Jesus brings. Let us remember that Christmas is not just about presents and decorations, but about the love and joy that Jesus brings to our lives. It should be an event when our hearts go back to the majestic purpose of God who sent us His son to rescue us from eternal separation from Him.

Action Steps: Reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Refocus on the spiritual significance of the day. Do not get caught up in the commercialization of Christmas. Instead, to celebrate the gift of salvation that Jesus brings. Share the love and joy that Jesus brings with others.

Quote for the Day: "Christmas is not just about presents and decorations, but about the love and joy that Jesus brings to our lives." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation that Jesus brings. Help us to refocus on the true meaning of Christmas and to celebrate the love and joy that Jesus brings to our lives. May we not get caught up in the commercialization of Christmas, but instead, may we share the love and joy of Jesus with others — in Jesus's most glorious name. Amen.

____________________

Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38; and John 3:16.

Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide written for free distribution and edification of churches, homes, and individuals. For inquiries, free counseling, or deliverance, please, write or visit: The Darling Bishop, 2321 S Beltline Rd Suite 144 Grand Prairie TX 75051 USA.

You can be a part of this great and free course through a one-time or recurring donation. To give through Zelle, using +14073608280 or CashApp: $SimonOlatunji. Thanks and God bless you. Amen.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

Send | Share | Subscribe | Support

____________________