The Christmas Spirit

It seems lately that there is less Christmas spirit than there used to be.

More and more, it seems that Christmas becomes about things rather than people. There seems to be less joy and less laughter.

Even I am guilty of not always being in the right frame of mind for this joyous season. I don't focus on the right things. I stress about all these little things that don't matter, and I forget the real reason to celebrate Christmas.

Jesus.

The whole reason we celebrate Christmas is because of Jesus' birth. But that's not all we celebrate. Christmas is a time to celebrate Jesus, and not only His birth, but also His life, His death, and the fact that He didn't stay dead.

And why do we celebrate Jesus? Because He is the Son of God.

So, if Jesus is the reason for the season, how do we celebrate it?

I think, as Christians, we are meant to live the whole year like it's Christmas: with love, joy, kindness, generosity, hope, and faith. 

Galations 5:22-23 says "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

You don't have to wait for Christmas to share the Christmas spirit. Because the real Christmas spirit isn't about Christmas trees, wreaths, stockings, food, fireplaces, hot cocoa, presents, or even family. The real Christmas spirit is the Holy Spirit. Thus, we can spread the Christmas spirit anywhere we go. If we live like we know Jesus personally, if we follow Him, and keep God's commandments, if we allow the Holy Spirit into our lives, then we can live like we have the Christmas Spirit all year round, because we will.

Let's all remember what's really important this season. Don't let the Christmas spirit become a spirit of greed or materialism. Try talking to someone about Jesus this Christmas. That would truly be a wonderful gift.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!