If you are in any way familiar with my blog and style of writing, then
you know the first place to start is at the title. It often provides a clue to
the blog content. Okay, you’ve had a
chance to glance back at the title “Christmas Simplicity.” I know what you’re thinking; “What an
oxymoron!” [oxymoron: figure of speech in which contrary terms or ideas are
combined] How in the world am I able to combine the word Christmas with any form of the word simple? It would seem, at least from the world’s view, that
Christmas is utter chaos packed with shopping, parties, events, cooking, decorations—you
name it, the list goes on and on.
For me, Christmas is the simple reminder that God so loved me that He
sent his One and Only Son to earth to bring me the free gift of salvation. In
addition, hope, joy, peace—these are all mine because God promised them to me
if I will follow Christ Jesus.
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:4-6 (NIV)
For me, the simplicity of Christmas is this:
- · The Bible is truth. It is God’s Holy Word. I can fully trust its promises.
- · The Bible teaches me endurance (e.g., how to continue, how to remain steadfast, how to put up with, how to withstand pain, distress, fatigue). As I learn and practice Jesus Christ’s example of endurance, I find the promised gift of peace.
- · The Bible teaches me encouragement (e.g., hope, confidence, support). As I learn and practice Jesus Christ’s example of encouragement, I find the promised gift of joy.
Christmas is a time to step back from the clutter, chaos, and hubbub of
the secular interpretation of the season, and remember the TRUE reason for the
season. The SIMPLE reason: Christ’s
birth brings us salvation. Christ’s birth brings hope, joy, and peace.
Finally, let’s go back to the text and notice the last phrase. Why does God provide endurance (peace) and
encouragement (joy)?
“…so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:6 (NIV)
Christmas
Simplicity = The Birth of Christ = Glory to God!
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NIV)
Respectfully written and
submitted by:
Dotty Willmon, Resurrection
Christian
