Written by: Gawie de Lange
Article source: JOY! Magazine
As Christmas decorations start filling our homes and festive tunes echo through the malls, there’s no mistaking the season. At our JOY! office, we have an annual tradition of putting up decorations as soon as we start working on our beautiful Christmas issues (in October). Every year, our office becomes a spectacularly decorated space. But amid all this festivity, I find myself pausing to reflect on the true significance of Christmas – a time to remember the ultimate gift that defines the season: the birth of Jesus.
Priorities amongst festivity
As we enter what’s often called the “silly season”, much of our energy goes into planning gifts for our loved ones. We think of what our family members would enjoy, consider what our spouse might need, and carefully go over the wish lists our children have given us. We also plan for a time of rest and connection, which is undoubtedly meaningful. Yet, in the midst of all these preparations, it’s crucial to pause and ponder why we celebrate Christmas.
The heart of Christmas
Christmas is a celebration of the greatest gift we’ve ever received – God’s gift of His only Son. A Father who loved us so profoundly that He gave us Jesus, knowing He would one day sacrifice Himself for us. Jesus came to die for our sins, providing a way for us to be forgiven and reconciled with God. Each year, as I think about this story, I’m moved to tears. I’m in awe that the Creator of the universe would love us so much that He’d give His beloved Son – for me, for you, for all of us. That selfless, unconditional love is at the heart of Christmas.
Here are 3 points to remind us why we celebrate Christmas:
- God’s love was revealed to us. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). God’s love for us was so deep that He gave His most precious gift – His Son. In a world where love is often conditional, God’s love is unconditional.
- Jesus is a gift that gives us peace in the overwhelming hustle and bustle. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isa 9:6).
- We now have the promise of salvation. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). Christmas is a celebration of this promise. Jesus came to save us from sin, to restore our relationship with God, and to offer us eternal life.
The ultimate gift
This Christmas, as we gather with family, exchange gifts, and enjoy the holiday cheer, let’s remember the real reason why we celebrate. The birth of Jesus is the ultimate gift – a gift of love, peace, and salvation. Choose life!
This article is featured in the December issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: https://joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-december-issue-2024/
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Date published: 20/12/2024
Gawie de Lange – general manager of JOY! Magazine. Email gawie@joymag.co.za
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