Jesus Is the Center of Christmas
Author
Fanny Rodríguez
Summary: Christmas celebrates the coming of Jesus, the Savior promised by Isaiah and announced to Mary as the eternal King. Although he deserves all honor and sovereignty, he did not come clothed in earthly power; instead, he set aside his royal status to take on our human frailty and obediently serve the Father. Jesus himself is God’s gift and the true meaning of Christmas. Therefore, let us not allow gifts, preparations, and meals to draw our attention away from him. Together with our families and friends, let us thank, praise, and honor him. If you do not yet acknowledge him as the King of your life, surrender to him and receive forgiveness and salvation.
Society customarily pays homage and tribute to people in positions of rank or authority. Today, a president or high-ranking dignitary receives special treatment, as does a senior military officer. In ancient times, a king or ruler also received special honors, even if his subjects were being mistreated.
The book of Isaiah, which is a prophetic book, announces the birth of Jesus in chapter 9:6 as follows: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This prophecy was fulfilled when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary: “And now you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and his kingdom will have no end.” Luke 1:31
During this very special Christmas season, we are celebrating the coming of our Savior Jesus. In ancient times, the kings brought him gifts in recognition of his sovereignty. However, he did not come down wearing the garments of a king; on the contrary, he took off his garments of royalty and power to clothe himself in humble humanity, becoming as fragile as a baby, and walked as a servant subject to the will of the Heavenly Father. Jesus is the meaning of Christmas. He is God’s gift to you and to me.
I ask God that the busyness of buying gifts and preparing the family dinner not cloud our vision or draw our attention away from the One who stripped himself of everything to bring us peace, that peace which surpasses all understanding. Let us take time with our families and friends to thank God for the wonderful gift of Jesus. He must be the center of our celebration; Jesus is the King worthy of being praised and honored.
Heavenly Father, if there is anyone reading this message who has not yet made Jesus the King of their life, I ask that today they surrender to you and receive the blessing of forgiveness and salvation in the name of Jesus. Amen.