The true meaning of Christmas
A devotion by Rev Benjamin van Rensburg, chairman of Arran Churches Together. ‘Let’s take a selfie!’ An all too common phrase that you hear all over the world today as people enjoy the convenience of taking a photo of themselves with their phones. Especially true if there is something interesting or someone famous in the background! It reflects the reality that, as humans, we don’t like to be just spectators, but like to be a part of something significant: whether it’s the Rugby World Cup final, the appearance of a famous movie star or a spectacular waterfall. A selfie makes us part of whatever is happening.
Christmas invites us to be part of the most significant event in history: God became human through the birth of Jesus Christ.
He entered this world because He deeply cares about us. Terrible things are happening in the world every day, but God loved the world and entered it in Jesus Christ to redeem it. This redemption is also for us. We can experience the love and grace of God. Jesus was born in a stable where he was approachable by shepherds from the fields and wise men from a foreign country. People could come to Christ regardless of their status in society or their place of origin. The birth of Christ is good news of great joy for everyone.
When you take a selfie at the Christmas tree, remember that you can be a part of Christmas in a much more profound way through your faith in Jesus. He came into the world so that you too can personally experience the love of God!