By Tom Shanklin

Yesterday, Susan and I visited our local shopping mall. The Christmas gift I had bought for her online did not work out, so I hoped to make a last-minute purchase for my bride. I guess they call it Panic Saturday, because so many people, especially men, are out and about making last-minute purchases.

The mall was quite busy. And although we seldom go there, yesterday was a good experience. We found a gift, shared a latte from Caribou Coffee, had some fudge, and a delicious Mediterranean sandwich. People seemed to be in a festive mood, and we shared a cheerful greeting of “Merry Christmas” with several clerks and shoppers. It turned out to be a very nice pre-Christmas date for Tom and Susan.

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. Or at least it can be. But, what really is so merry about Christmas? Yes, the festive atmosphere, getting together with family, the presents and meals are all wonderful. But Christmas is really about a Father’s love for His children who have gone astray from Him. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, who came to save us from our sins. 

Without the virgin birth, Jesus could not have walked among us. He came to be a light in a dark place. He came to show us the way back to the comfort and peace of our Father’s house. He died and rose again so that we could have life. Without Him we would all be in darkness forever, dead in our trespasses and sins. But Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NKJV).PIf you have not before, choose to follow Jesus today. Pray something like this from your heart: 

“Dear Father, I’m coming back to you. Thank you for sending Jesus to die for my sins. I believe He rose again. I turn from sin and confess Jesus as my Lord. I choose to follow Jesus. Thank you for saving me and bringing me into your light, in Jesus’ name. Amen”

Maybe you know someone who needs some Christmas cheer. Feel free to share this message of the Father’s love, to light their way.