The birth of the Savior wasn’t meant to be celebrated seasonally, but daily and hourly!

“Some sat in darkness and deepest gloom, imprisoned in iron chains of misery.”

Psalm 107:10 NLT

The reasons Jesus came into the world … are still the reasons Christmas must continue!

• He came to a world where ‘dark’ was the spiritual atmosphere.
• He entered a world of secrets, treachery and bondage.
• Jesus was born into a world of double standards, even in religious people.
• Immorality was not only condoned, but encouraged among many.
• Truth had fallen in the streets as Isaiah had prophesied.

It was a world with deep wounds and no salve to heal them. People had hard questions about life which nobody answered. Lies abounded and truth eluded. Pressures built and there was no peace to offset it and conquer it. We were sinners and couldn’t save ourselves.

We needed help.

“ Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,

to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us

to the path of peace.” Luke 1:78,79 NLT

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners,

Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 NIV

 This world still urgently needs a Savior. The world hasn’t changed and will not change without assistance from God … and so He gave!

I am not alone in noticing something special going on in me at the Christmas season. I am aware of things that I usually miss or ignore. The songs touch a part of me that is often deadened to their words and meanings. I see people differently during this time of year.  I yearn to spread joy and hope.

And so, Christmas must continue even after the actual day of December 25 passes. I don’t mean the tree must stay up … but our hope and confidence in Jesus must. We can put the lights away … but keep the light inside of us burning brightly. The carols can fall off the top of the music charts … but the song of the redeemed must continue playing year round.

For the sake of the people still abiding in darkness and hopelessness … we must keep the message of Christmas available at all times in the year.

Merry Christmas from Paul and Joan Walterman and Fresh Heart Ministries.