Text by Rheynalyn Altoveros
Read:
Luke 2:8-12 (NASB)
8 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Reflect:
Christmas is the happiest time of the year, they say. You would probably agree with this.
People are in a holiday spirit, there’s gift-giving, and you’ll find loads of sales among stores. And don’t you find those Christmas decorations adorable? Best of all, you can go on vacation and spend time with your loved ones. We all look forward to celebrating such a special season with our family.
How about if we take out all of these things that we have become so accustomed to during this time of the year?
Does Christmas in the middle of the pandemic feel the same as before? If you’re one of those heavily affected by typhoon Odette, how would you celebrate the occasion?
Yes, we understand how difficult it could be. Not so many resources, no dazzling Christmas lights, no new clothes and stuff. But take heart! When Jesus was born, the Son of God, it was not grand either. There was nothing spectacular. It was in a manger. But that was the sign the shepherds were looking for, the Savior that they are waiting for!
The true meaning of Christmas is not on the things and traditions we have built around this glorious occasion. It’s in Jesus, the reason for the season.
There’s still great joy for all of us because the Savior was born! He is the good news of great joy, and He is worth celebrating! In Him, there is hope. He is our great help! His presence with us can make a big difference.
Great joy is not just happiness. It’s not dependent on external things. Joy is something from the inside. You may be experiencing struggles, but there can be so much joy in your heart.
And the joy that Jesus brings? It’s a glorious kind of joy. It’s a joy that we can bring anywhere for everyone to experience.
So no matter what your circumstances are, Christmas can still be merry and bright. Jesus is enough reason for us to rejoice. It’s good news. He became so real for us, in the form of a baby. He dwelt with us. He is Immanuel, God with us.
Respond:
Are you looking for signs to celebrate the season? Do you need joy in your life?
You don’t need to look any further. Search your heart, and find Jesus. We may not see Him physically, but He is with us. And in Him, there’s a great joy available for you. Unto you, a Savior is born.
Rheyn is an agriculturist and an aspiring best-selling author. She lives in Bay, Laguna with her husband Pau and their little one, Fave. She currently works as a freelance writer but will be finishing her MS degree soon. She is passionate about seeing the youth surrendering their lives to Jesus and following His ways. What she likes most about the Word of God is the life and reality it carries, how it springs to life whenever she needs it.
AUTHOR: RHEYNALYN ALTOVEROS