Refocusing on the true message of Christmas

In a world where the Christmas season has come to be associated with buying and exchanging gifts, traveling, eating and various other activities, we need to take time to contemplate what the season really should be focused on. 

Last week we looked at promises given to Mary and Joseph. In Luke chapter 2, we see the announcement to the shepherds of the fulfillment of this promised birth. In verse 11, He is proclaimed to be the Savior. His purpose was to make a way for all mankind to be saved from the result of sin that is present in every person. It is only through Jesus that we can be given a home in heaven and not an eternal place in hell. This alone gives us a great reason to rejoice.

We have this reason to rejoice, yet the season often brings stress, anxiety and depression to many. These feelings arise because our focus shifts to the busyness of the holiday or to our own situations, leaving us feeling lonely or overwhelmed. As we dwell on these issues, the problems seem to multiply, and we become consumed with what is going on in and around us.

What we really need is to return our focus to the original message to the shepherds. The angel said in Luke 2:10, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” When we focus on His purpose — to bring joy and the good news of the gospel to everyone — it redirects our attention away from the things that make life difficult.

Jesus said in John 10:10 that the purpose of His coming was not only to bring life but to make that life more abundant. This abundance comes as we give, help and encourage others instead of becoming absorbed in our own issues.

Take some time this Christmas to bring joy into others’ lives. It just might make the problems you are facing a little lighter to handle. Jesus wants to help you. Focus on Him and His good tidings this Christmas season.

David Powell Carrollton Baptist Temple