December 25
Finding Joy in the
True Meaning of Christmas
But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid. I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
Luke 2:10-11 NIrV
The air crackled with excitement in the Rodriguez household. Christmas morning was finally here! The smell of cinnamon rolls filled the air, and wrapping paper lay scattered across the living room floor. Children's laughter mingled with the soft strains of Christmas carols playing on the stereo.
Ten-year-old Sofia bounced on the balls of her feet, her eyes wide with anticipation. Her brother, Mateo, raced around the Christmas tree, his face flushed with excitement. Their parents, Maria and Javier, beamed with pride, watching their children revel in the magic of the season.
As the family gathered for breakfast, Javier raised his hand for silence. "Before we dig into all these delicious treats," he said, his voice filled with warmth, "let's remember why we celebrate Christmas."
He explained to his children about the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world, and how that event brought hope and joy to the world. He reminded them that Christmas was more than just presents and decorations; it was a time to celebrate God's love for humanity.
Sofia, initially disappointed by the interruption to the festivities, began to understand. She thought about the shepherds in the fields, the angels singing, the joy that filled the hearts of those who witnessed the birth of Jesus. A sense of awe washed over her, replacing the initial excitement.
Later that day, as they exchanged gifts and shared stories, Sofia felt a deeper sense of joy. The presents were wonderful, of course, but the true gift, she realized, was the love and togetherness that filled their home. It was a reminder that the true meaning of Christmas lay not in the material things, but in the celebration of God's love and the joy of sharing it with those we love.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus Christ.
Help us to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to celebrate it with joy and gratitude.
May we share your love with others and use this season to bring hope and joy to those around us.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
