WHO HAS THE REAL CHRISTMAS SPIRIT?

For today in the city of David there has been born for you

a Savior who is Christ the Lord.  Luke 2:11

During the Christmas season, we think about the “Christmas spirit.”  Yet this spirit is very different for many.  To get a proper definition of it, let’s go back to the first Christmas in Luke 2:1-20 and investigate what this real spirit is and who has it.

First we meet Caesar Augustus, the emperor of the Roman Empire.  To Caesar, the Christmas spirit with his census was materialistic and monetary.  That spirit continues today.  Christmas is by and large what we can get from the season.  Is this the real spirit of Christmas?

Then we meet the unknown innkeeper.  Mary and Joseph travelled some 75 miles over rough terrain arriving in Bethlehem without a motel reservation.  But the harried innkeeper’s response to them/Christ was “No Vacancy.”  That spirit continues today.  We get so busy with our activities that when Christ knocks, He gets the “NO VACANCY” sign shoved in His face (Revelation 3:20).  Is this the real Christmas spirit?

Next we meet the shepherds on a hillside near Bethlehem.  Their nightly routine is interrupted by some angels whose spirit was one of joy and praise that the Savior had been born.  This is the real Christmas spirit!  After hearing the news, the shepherds searched with urgency until they found the Child.  Then they proclaimed the good news to others!  Far too many people sing of Jesus, put up nativity scenes, go to church, have warm feelings, BUT … never experience a personal relationship with Christ.  Will you stay in the fields or come to the cross and receive life everlasting?

Finally, we find Mary pondering, considering all these things.  The real spirit is not material gifts or profits, not ceaseless activity, BUT to personally receive Jesus as your Savior, and then to continually praise God and give Him all the worship, glory, and thanksgiving He rightfully deserves.  Christ is the only true spirit of Christmas.

Bob Kulp