by John Coulombe
Provided by CN Building Adult Ministries Resource Center
The Key to Christmas – Attitude or Activity?
In his book entitled Jesus Rediscovered, the late Malcolm Muggeridge, British journalist, author and Christian apologist comments on the celebration of Christmas and what might be considered an overexposed and overstated season. He wonders: In the exposition and portrayal of Christ’s birth, literally billions of words, oceans of paint, acres of canvas, and mountains of stone and marble have been expended, not to mention in recent times, miles of film. Is there, then, anything left to say? I ask myself, rather disconsolately, and decide that there is—not because of me, but because of Him.
As we head once again into this gala season of giving thanks and “Holy-days,” preparing to celebrate and send greetings, we are probably asking similar questions: “How can I engage and appraise this season with new eyes, fresh thoughts and a renewed heart of joy and praise?” The story is such a simple one—yet so profound. Max Lucado (in God Came Near) puts it this way:
God became a man . . .. The omnipotent, in one instant, made Himself breakable. He, who had been spirit, became pierceable. He who was larger than the universe became an embryo.
And He who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl. God as a fetus. Holiness sleeping in a womb. The creator of life being created. God was given eyebrows, elbows, two kidneys and a spleen. He stretched against the walls and floated in the amniotic fluids of His mother. God had come near . . . The Word became flesh.
What inconceivable, incredible, inexpressible, incomprehensible thoughts! God is approachable, touchable, and knowable. Now that’s worth giving thanks and having a celebration or two! However, let’s not forget the message in the little chorus we sing: “Celebrate My birth, celebrate My life, celebrate My truth that made you free. But in all your celebration, don’t forget in your elation, to worship and celebrate Me.”
As we move into the brisk weather of these months, the rich and abundant foods and bustling, bursting schedules, let’s keep in mind that the key to enjoying rather than enduring this season is in our attitude, not our activities.” Our prayer for you is that you let the Word who became flesh break through to your spirit to become your Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
John Coulombe has served for 20 years as Pastor to Senior Adults at First Evangelical Free Church, Fullerton CA