Thanksgiving has passed, and Christmas is upon us. In fact, our Christmas festivities already began last weekend, will continue this weekend, and not end until the week after that.

It’s easy to get caught up in all the hubbub that surrounds this season – decorations, lights, gifts, get-togethers, food…the list is endless. Let’s stop for a minute and remember the TRUE reason for the season – Jesus.

A few weeks ago I was at a craft fair (looking for Christmas gifts, nonetheless), and a wooden plaque that read “Celebrate Jesus” caught my attention. These two words are so simple, yet so profound, aren’t they? They pricked my soul, causing me to stop and think about the upcoming Christmas season.

Christmas is truly a time to celebrate Jesus, our Lord and Savior’s, birth.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

We celebrate Jesus’ birth because he was born to save us – to save us from eternal damnation (aka: that scary place no one wants to go, hell). How awesome is that?! Salvation is the greatest gift of all. Celebrate Jesus this Christmas season and receive His gift of salvation.

That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (Romans 10:9-10)

Merry Christmas!