The Christmas tree is still in its box somewhere in the backroom. The Christmas ornaments are most likely in the same room in a couple of different bins. The ceramic Christmas village we usually set up is still packed away. A few decorations are up. Cards are strung up along some of our doorways. Not a lot of Christmas baking took place this year in our kitchen. We attended a Christmas Eve service in a new church instead of being part of the worship team of our church home. Instead of visiting or hosting family for Christmas, we will be by ourselves.
This Christmas looks way different for us than what we are used to. Just over a month ago we had to move due to a change of jobs for my husband. We moved to a town over 2 ½ hours away from everyone and everything we know. Transitions can be hard. I will admit that I have shed a few tears over having to move away. And not doing our usual Christmas Eve and Christmas traditions this year is certainly different and kind of makes it hard to “feel” like Christmas.
A few weeks ago I saw a wall hanging that said “Simplify Christmas: Celebrate Christ.” What a great reminder. We celebrate the one of the best events that ever happened—God sending His Son to earth to be born in order to provide salvation for all who believe on Him! Jesus came. He was born in a barn surrounded by animals. Angels told the shepherds of this glorious news! Jesus grew to be a man. He died on a cross for us, for our sins. We could never be holy enough to come before a holy God. Jesus came to pay the debt we could not pay. He loved us. He loves us! We have hope and salvation through Him.
Christmas is very different for us this year. But really, it’s also the same. We rejoice and celebrate that Jesus was born! We celebrate that He loved us so much to be willing to come and be born to die for us. And He rose from the grave! He is in Heaven preparing a place for those who believe in Him. What great love! What a reason to celebrate!
Celebrate. Celebrate Christ!
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