The True Meaning of Christmas

There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel's consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord's Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God and said:
" Now, Master, You can dismiss your slave in peace, as You promised.
For my eyes have seen Your salvation, You have prepared it in the presence of all peoples- a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to your people Israel.
His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about a him. Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: " indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed- a sword will pierce your own soul-that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." Luke 2:25-35

Simeon had waited, longingly, to see the Messiah and now as an old man his desire was being fulfilled. As a man of God, who better to receive Jesus when He was taken to the temple to perform a rite that was inherently important to the Jewish nation. Jesus was welcomed by life not death in the church.

As I awoke this morning I knew that God-lovers in America, Canada, Mexico and South America were still celebrating Jesus'coming, I could hear the carol 'Joy to the World'. How blessed are we to belong to a world of different time zones, celebrations can last so much longer, and what a celebration! 

Just as Simeon had waited longingly and finally was able to celebrate, I am forever grateful to Jesus for coming and calling to me at 19. Oh what a night, my holy night, when He came to me.

Oh what a day when Jesus came to Simeon. What Joy! What complete joy filled Simeon's heart!

Jesus, not Santa, is the answer to life and peace. As we focus on Christ at Christmas our joy is complete. When we focus of Santa and the emotional sales that are made about him we are left disappointed. Only Jesus can truly satisfy the longings of the heart, only Jesus brings peace.

For the first Christmas in a very long time, I sense I have come home to the true meaning of Christmas. My souls is flooded with joy, because I celebrate my Saviour's coming and that hope does not disappoint. Amen! What joy!

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