Christmas Thoughts 2009

So much more than “Happy Birthday.”

 

Merry Christmas my friend.  I recently looked up the definition of the word “merry” and was struck with the depth of such a feeling. It speaks of “high spirits” and being “full of gaiety.” It mentions “elation” and “exhilaration.”

 

Upon reading this, I wondered if I had really ever had a “merry” Christmas, by the letter of the definition.  Really…had I?  

 

As I thought of this my mind went straight to King David dancing merrily in celebration of his God. (2 Sam. 6:12-22) He was so enthralled and taken by his Lord that he just did a dance right there without shame.  Understand, David was the king.  Kings don’t do such things.  Try to imagine a current leader like a Pope or President leaping and dancing.  You can’t, because they don’t.

 

But David did.

 

Afterwards scripture tells us that Saul’s daughter, Michal, publicly criticized King David for being so brash in his celebration.  David basically said, “Hun…you aint seen nothing yet.  I can throw down more than that!” (Sorry, please allow my translation there.)

 

David was flat out elated.  He was on a high that nothing else can give.  Not the strongest drugs, not the tallest stack of dollars, not the longest line of willing women. 

 

David was worshipping God.  He knew that God completed him and that he was nothing without God.

 

This Christmas I encourage you to celebrate.  To worship.  To acknowledge.  To speak His name.  To thank Him.  Yes, it’s is when we mark the time of His birth.  His entrance as a real baby.  But beyond the image of Him in that manger I encourage you to fast forward roughly thirty three years from that point.  Because that’s the deal, right there.  That’s when He came through with the gift.  The ultimate present for you and me.

 

Go with me on the following little example, because it strays from most Christmas imagery. Imagine being locked in a concentration camp, bound for certain death, when suddenly a brave man came and rescued you.  Then not long after that amazing moment you find yourself at a birthday party in his honor.  I’m thinking you would think less in terms of “Happy birthday” and more along the lines of “That is the man who saved me.”

 

Sure, let’s declare “Happy birthday Jesus.”  It’s Christmas.  His day.  But beyond just “Happy birthday” let’s commit to acknowledging his utter fullness.  And our nothingness apart from Him.

 

Much love to you.

 

Clay Crosse