That Christmas Feeling

Suggested Scripture:

Luke 2

Key Verse:

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10:11)

As the checkout clerk at the grocery store waited for my lengthy receipt to print, I asked her if she was ready for Christmas.

"Not yet," she answered with a wistful sigh, "it's hard to get in the mood for it. I'm originally from Minnesota. Without snow it just doesn't feel like Christmas to me."

I couldn't relate on the matter of needing snow to complete my Christmas. Here in Southern California the holiday frequently coincides with Santa Ana winds more than any other type of weather. Meteorological conditions aside, I wondered if there really is a specific feeling to be experienced during this time of year. The following quote from Calvin Coolidge sums up the matter nicely: "Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas."

Although Christmas day is fast approaching, the celebration of Christ's coming will continue well into the New Year. Experiencing the greatest measure of joy in Christmas depends on more than a feeling. It depends on a state of mind. Fresh joy springs up in our hearts each day we are mindful of the reality of Jesus' birth. Peace, mercy and goodwill at the hand of our Creator God; these are the things that Christians have to celebrate when we commemorate Jesus' birth.

Christmas is more than meets the eye. It is about what and Who has met our hearts.

Reflecting Pool:

What sort of feelings do you associate with Christmas?

What are some specific things you can do to prepare your heart to have a meaningful celebration of Christ's birth?


Deep Diving:


Name three things you traditionally do during the Christmas season. In what ways (if any) do those traditions center around the true meaning of Christmas?