Today officially begins the Christmas shopping season, as many retailers open as early as 5 a.m. to the bargain-hunting, American public. The name “Black Friday” originated in Philadelphia, where the foot and vehicle traffic increased to seemingly-epic proportions. Additionally, with debt defined as being in the red and profit defined as being in the black, the day begins the most profitable time for retailers throughout the year. Many retailers on the internet and in malls offer incredible specials on “Black Friday,” though in limited supply. For many, the day begins a reminder of the Thanksgiving meal with leftovers, whether turkey sandwiches or turkey soup. After a meal commemorating our thankfulness to God, who blessed us with abundance, we now rush into a month-long process of buying gifts in over-abundance.
Yet we often lose sight of the most important gift being celebrated. When God sent His Son to earth to live as a man, He offered the only One who could endure this life without sin. When Jesus died, His precious blood was sufficient to cover the sins of all of humanity -- past, present and future. Instead of buying Chia pets and Snuggies for our friends and loved ones, we should tell them boldly about the Son of God. What better time to do that than in the season commemorating His birth! Even though scholars believe that Jesus was most likely born early in the fall, on one of the Jewish feast days, December 25 is the day our culture has set aside to celebrate His birth. Sadly, most Americans have become a part of the “Happy Holidays” generation, choosing to remove Christ from Christmas!
So for all the bargain-hunters, we can share the greatest gift, which ironically, is free. Salvation does not cost any of us a cent, yet it did not come cheaply, costing Jesus His life. As Christians, it is important to look for opportunities to share the gospel, when the Holy Spirit opens the door. When we push the door open, rarely do we find people willing to listen. But when they ask the questions, most people are receptive to our answers. “Why do you always have a smile on your face?” “You have a glow on your face; is there someone special in your life?” At the least, we can respond to their greeting of “Happy Holidays” with “Merry Christmas!”
6 For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Isaiah 9:6
30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. 33 And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
Luke 1:30-33
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