Christmas Thoughts

tonight, I was thinking about what the season is REALLY all about. As Christians, we often say that JESUS is the reason for the season, but is that really true? Can we go to a party and never mention His name and say that He is the reason for the season? Can we tell stories of rudolph and frosty and yet say little or nothing about the Christ child and say that He is the real reason for Christmas? Can we go to staff get togethers, put lights on a tree and wrap gifts and never give a thought to Jesus and say He is the reason?
What is Christmas all about?
Yes, It is about Jesus. It is about understanding that God sent His Son to be born in a manger and to die on a cross because we are desperate sinners in need of a Savior. I feel bad knowing that we have lost Jesus in the midst of a celebration bearing His name. We talk of Santa and Rudolph. And yes, we will even go to church on Christmas Eve.
But there is something inside of me that continues to beg the question....is that why He came? So that we could claim to be Christians and live half heartedly for Him? Do we really think that He came so that we could get our get out of hell free cards and live any way we like?
I can't imagine that is what He wants. And I certainly can't imagine that He is pleased with our celebration of His Birth...with only the slightest mention of His name. Do we not understand these are ETERNAL issues....life and death....?
I am overwhelmed tonight thinking that so many wear His name and can attend church and parites in His name and yet, never mention His name, talk of His greatness or live as He has called.
Father....may you so radically change our lives....that you would no longer be lost in a religion that wears your name.
ALL FOR YOU