We love the fairy tale nature of this time of year. Santa Claus in a red suit and white beard is make-believe (sorry to break the news to you). The elf on a shelf is an odd device designed to keep your kids in line. Rudolf is a cartoon. Merchants sprinkle soap flakes in store windows to create a nostalgic holiday feeling, all so you will spend more money.
Jesus, however, is real. He appeared at a specific point in history. Jesus, born in an actual barn, took his first breath with parents and animals alongside. Jesus’ birth is not a fairy tale, not a myth, not a legend or sweet idea to embrace. Jesus’ birth is good news (not good advice – see Tim Keller’s Hidden Christmas for more).
It’s funny that his birth launched this entire Christmas cacophony. Kings brought him gifts, foreshadowing Black Friday. A star in the sky announced his birth, yielding twinkling lights throughout our homes. Motley shepherds visited Jesus at his birth stall, much like odd relatives around our festive tables.
So much has changed, but the facts remain. God become flesh. Jesus entered this world as an infant. Shepherds and kings worshipped and feared him. Men and women worship and fear him today. We call this month “the most wonderful time of year,” and it certainly is that. But not due to Santa or snow or classic movies. Rather, due to the most wonderful Lord in heaven who gifted us his Son 2,000 year ago.
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