Putting Christ back into Christmas

Hi all, it's been a while since I did this and my notes from this morning were a bit sparse, but here is this morning sermon.

The reading this morning was from Luke 2:8-12

8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

In the business of the season, don't forget the reason!

If a stranger were to come to town, not knowing anything of our religion or culture, what message would they get at this time of year? Among the hustle and bustle of busy shoppers, all the pretty decorations and parties, would anyone be able to convince him that the birth of a saviour was the main reason for the celebrations?

I tend to think that it would be easier to convince them that the main reason for the celebrations was a fat man, with a white beard, wearing a red suit and giving out gifts for no particular reason was the main focus and that it was just another excuse for getting drunk.

We need to put Christ back into Christmas!

May God bless you richly this week.

Richard.