ON CHRISTIANITY
DEAR REV. GRAHAM: What do you think Jesus would say if he came back to earth just before Christmas and walked into one of our large shopping malls? Would he be surprised (or even horrified) at what we’ve done to Christmas, or would he just take it in stride?
— A.M.
DEAR A.M.: No, Jesus wouldn’t be surprised at what we’ve done to Christmas — because he already knows! After all, God knows all about us, and nothing we do can ever be hidden from him. The Bible says, “Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13).
At the same time, it must bring great sadness to God to see the way we’ve treated his son — not just at Christmas, but every day of the year. The problem isn’t just that we’ve become preoccupied with material things (although it’s not necessarily wrong to want to bring joy to others through our giving). Nor is it only because Christ today is often banned from our public celebrations of Christmas (although I deeply regret this).
The real problem is within our souls. Do you remember what happened that first Christmas? Because Caesar had ordered a census, Mary and Joseph had to undertake a long and difficult journey (probably on foot) just as Mary was about to give birth. But when they got to Bethlehem, there was no room for them in the inn — and Mary was forced to give birth in a stable. Tragically, we still have no room in our lives for Jesus.
Will Christ be the center of your Christmas this year? Turn to him and by faith welcome him into your heart and life. Then build your life on him — not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at billygraham.org