Billions of people around the world enjoy Christmas and Easter holidays.
And about a third of the world's population are Christians who are more likely to appreciate the significance of those seasons.
In a few weeks, on what we call Christmas Day, that third will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ into our world. The exact year of this miraculous event is not definitely known, but most biblical scholars and historians estimate that he was born between 4BC and 6BC, based on historical records, particularly the accounts of King Herod's reign and the biblical narratives.
But the reason for this event is much clearer, and gives rise to our enthusiastic celebration.
Jesus' life, death, resurrection and return to heaven were the events God arranged to reconcile the world to himself, and to no longer hold our sins against us.
Although this had been God's plan from before time began, and was forecast by the ancient Jewish prophets, it became a reality a bit over 2000 years ago when Jesus was born in Bethlehem; so beginning a whole new era in world history.
The other billions in the world, who haven't yet realised their future is so secured by the execution of God's plan, will eventually do so because Jesus dealt with sin and death for everyone.
That's why I wish "Merry Christmas" to everyone, rather than "happy holiday" or "season's greetings", as all are included in God's plan - and that greeting is also a reminder that Christ is the reason for the season.
One of my favourite Christmas carols is "Mary's Boy Child", sung by the Gaither Vocal Band. Its chorus has the words:
Hark, now hear the angels sing/ A new born King today/
And man will live forevermore/ Because of Christmas day/
Trumpets sound and angels sing/ Listen to what they say/
That man will live forevermore/ Because of Christmas day.
So I genuinely wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a great new year.
Blessings, Barry
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Other published Writings at https://www.ibtechservices.com.au
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