A Christmas Reflection

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Every year, as December rolls around, our doors, shops, and social media feeds fill with beautiful Christmas wreaths (and other styles of decoration) – lush green pine, bright red berries, golden baubles, and cheerful bows. They’re lovely, aren’t they? Symbols of celebration, warmth, and the festive “season” we all enjoy.

But pause for a moment and look again at the image above.

On the left: ‘Tis the Season – the wreath that says parties, presents, carols, and mince pies.

On the right: ‘Tis the Reason – a crown of thorns encircling the cross of our Saviour.

Two wreaths. One points to the joy of the season. The other points to the cost of the reason.

Christmas is not ultimately about the decorations, delicious food, or even family traditions (wonderful as those things are). Christmas exists because of Easter. The baby in the manger is the same Man who would one day wear that cruel crown. The wood of the manger leads straight to the wood of the cross.

The angels announced “peace on earth” not because the world was suddenly going to be perfect, but because the Prince of Peace had come to make peace between sinful humanity and a holy God – through His own blood.

So this year, as you hang your wreath on the door, let it remind you of another “wreath” – the crown of thorns pressed upon the head of Jesus. Let the beauty of the season drive you deeper into gratitude for the reason: God became man, lived the perfect life we could never live, died the death we deserved, and rose victorious so that everyone who repents and trusts in Him might have eternal life.

‘Tis the season to celebrate – because ‘tis the reason we have anything to celebrate at all.

May the joy of Christmas fill your hearts, but may the wonder of the cross never leave them.

Blessed Christmas to you all from everyone at South Featherstone Gospel Hall.

In His amazing grace.

Article written by Shaun Fereday, Leader @SFGH Church 

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