Christmas is soon upon us. For followers of Jesus, His birth is the focal point of the holiday. What happens to the Christmas holiday when Jesus is removed? Emptied of the true object of celebration, Christmas becomes hollow; a vacuum appears, only to be filled with lovely decorations and "things".

When Jesus and His principles are removed from any area of life, a substitute appears. When removed from the legal system, truth and justice become fleeting dreams. Deals and compromise fill the vacuum. When Jesus and His principles are removed from economics, the value of people is often replaced with only the value of profit. When removed from healthcare, compassion and acts of mercy are replaced with "the stroke in room 202". When governments let go of Jesus and His principles, power and position win over reconciliation and trust. When we personally remove Jesus and his principles from our lives, peace and contentment are often replaced with turmoil and restlessness. The vacuum must be filled. Christmas is soon upon us. Remember Jesus. Let no vacuum suck in a shallow substitute.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6 NIV)

 

Sharing the journey with you,

Bob Snyder