The Reason for the Season

I know its a cliche, but even cliches are born in truth. And, I think we often need the reminder that Jesus is "the reason for the season". Of course, the danger with cliches is that they quickly touch our lips and then are gone. No connection with what they originally meant. No thought of what they might actually be trying to communicate. I think that is especially true of those who would most heartily agree with the cliche. It very easily becomes meaningless shorthand.

But Jesus is "the reason for the season". In fact I would say He is more than that. He is the reason for every season. Christmas is special because it celebrates a one time event where God became man, when he humbled himself to dwell (literally tabernacle) among us. But as the one who creates and sustains all things and as the one who owns all things, every yearly season, every season of life, every era of history belongs to Him, points to Him and gives glory to Him. Pick anything you want and you will see God's hand in it driving people to His beloved Son.

Yet, there is one moment, one season in history that outshines all of the others. As Christmas is known for the manger and the angels and the shepherds and joy and peace, this event is known for suffering and isolation and ridicule and humiliation. Blood and torture, rejection and death are not usually joyously celebrated. Yet at the cross, the real beauty and purpose of Christmas shines forth. In all reality Christmas without Good Friday and Easter is like a novel with only half the chapters.

Here is a new cliche to add to our repertoire: "Jesus was born to die". Or how about "Christmas without the Cross is only half the story" Or maybe this one (although it is a bit long) "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons." (Gal 4:4-5)

To God Alone be the Glory