As someone observed, it means everything that at Christmas, we celebrate a birth, not an abortion. It is of the highest significance that Christmas celebrates a birth that, while it was a surprise to many, was planned all along by God and foretold by the prophets.
Truths about Christmas, like these, are not far-off truths, only for a manger in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago. Instead, the Virgin Birth and the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ are at the very heart of the soul-saving Gospel and have implications for every generation and for every day of life.
We live in a society that increasingly ignores or is at odds with the truths of Christmas. Yet this gives us an opportunity to apply those truths to so many challenging areas in society today.
This Christmas, as the culture of death continues to expand and exact its toll, allow, instead, the miracle of the Virgin Birth to provide a lens through which we see life as wonderful and valuable.
As abortionists offer their so-called services, this Christmas, look for women in your community who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and offer hope and help.
As foster care and orphan numbers rise, this Christmas, show the love of Christ by helping a family in your church who has taken the great step of foster care.
As the destructive culture of pornography, drugs and abuse wreck families and communities, this Christmas, be an ambassador of grace, truth and reconciliation, even as our Lord Jesus.
As the economy goes up and down, this Christmas, look for families in need who need shelter and help, as Mary and Joseph did.
As threats of terrorism and mass violence increase, this Christmas, pray that God’s people will shine the Light of the Prince of Peace.
As wars in foreign lands increase, this Christmas, pray that the peace of God and the will of God would be done on Earth, as it is in Heaven.
As politicians sling mud at each other and struggle in gridlock, this Christmas, don’t look to government to solve all of our problems. Look to Jesus, Who alone is the answer.
As the world drowns in a digital world of distraction, this Christmas, lift your voice and sing, “Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail, the Son of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings. … Born that man no more may die. Born to raise the sons of Earth. Born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald angels sing ‘Glory to the newborn King!’’
As lost souls die apart from a saving faith in Christ, this Christmas, look for people with whom you can share the life-changing message of the Gospel, the greatest gift of all.
These are a few ways we can respond to challenges in the culture and allow the truths of Christmas to guide our lives and put feet to our faith this season.
