Matthew 1:21 And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” NLT
Today is Christmas. In recent times, the celebration attracted criticism from within the circle of believers because of its origin which stems from paganism. It is a polemical issue. Truly, the early church didn't celebrate Christmas because the season between Dec 17-25th was used by pagans in Rome to celebrate Saturnalia. When Christianity became a state religion, the Roman Catholic Bishops decided that December 25th should be dedicated to the celebration of Christ's birth not because Christ was born on 25th of December. They weren't dogmatic about that date. After all, some days like fathers day, mothers day were fixed not necessarily because all fathers were born on that day but just to mark the existence of fathers and celebrate fatherhood. The decision to celebrate Christ specially on a day like this was made to take the attention of the people away from the pagan worship of that time and to help them focus on Christ. Hence, "Christ mass" meaning Christ's celebration.
If I have the power and influence the old Roman Catholic Bishops had, I can also declare other pagan worship days to celebrate the Holy Spirit. After all, Sunday which has become the official worship day of Christians all over the world(except in Arab world) was formally a day dedicated to worship the sun god yet we now regard it as a holy day. In fact, almost all weeks had their names from the pagan worship of that time. Listen to what Paul said, "In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable. THOSE WHO WORSHIP THE LORD ON A SPECIAL DAY DO IT TO HONOR HIM", Romans 14:5-6 NLT. This scripture should settle all debates and get everyone to decide on what they want based on their conviction.
The essence of the celebration and the relationship people have with the person we are celebrating is my major concern not the debate. Unfortunately, many celebrate Christmas without Christ in their lives. The purpose of his coming is often overlooked and some persons use a day like this to indulge in revelry and immorality. The purpose of Christ's birth is to save mankind from sin. Are you saved? Are you born again? Is your name written in the Lamb's book of life? If Jesus comes now, will you rapture with him? If Christ is not in your life as you celebrate Christmas, you have no basis for celebration. You are not different from the pagans of that time. God became man to save man so that man will not die eternally. This is the message of Christmas that we must preach. It should be a season of soul harvest not partying. If you're yet to accept Jesus as your Lord and personal saviour, say the words of the prayer below:
"Father, I know I'm a sinner. Forgive me of my sins, write my name in the book of life. I accept Jesus as my Lord and personal saviour. I believe he died and resurrected for my sake. Thank you for saving me eternally, in Jesus name. Amen".
Compliment of the season!