Holidays

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I remember when I was little boy how my older brother would always say that Christmas is just around the corner, and how I would jump at the bit to get him to take me to see it. Despite the cultural war against it, Christmas has always been and will be special. I seek to give you the necessary tools so that you don’t miss the second Christmas. Now before you think Clemons is dealing with half a deck, hear me out. See, you and I missed the first Christmas.

The first government to recognize Christmas as a holiday was that under Constantine around 325 AD. Christians of that day held a large religious worship service and feast to commemorate the birth of Jesus. It was called the Christ Mass. But this still is not the first Christmas.

The event (Gen. 3:15; Deut. 18:15; Isa. 9:6) and place (Micah 5:2) of the first Christmas were predicted. The fulfillment (Matt. 1:18 – 25; Luke 2:1 – 7) occurred around 3 to 4 BC under Herod the Great. God, wrapped in flesh in the person of Jesus exited Mary’s womb as a sacrifice for the world.

We have a precursor to Christmas called Christmas Eve. Have you ever seen little ones’ anticipation regarding their presents? Remember when you just couldn’t wait for the clock to strike midnight? Well before the second Christmas, there will be a Christmas Eve. The Bible outlines it in 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 53 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 18. It is better known as the Rapture. Like a kid on Christmas Eve who can’t wait to open that new truck, doll, or video game, we should be with all the more in anticipation and excitement to meet our Lord (Philip. 3:20; Heb. 9:28).

After that, we’ll see the second Christmas. Like the first, its event (Zephaniah 3:14 – 20; Acts 1:11) and place (Zechariah 14:3 – 4) have been predicted. The fruition has yet to occur (Rev. 19:11 – 21). Just think, Christmas for a thousand years!

So what’s all this about? If you’re not sure you’ll be at the second Christmas then:

1. Acknowledge that you have sin – Romans 3:23
2. Know only Jesus can save you from that sin – Acts 4:12
3. Trust in (transfer all that you depend on for salvation – parents, money, religious affiliation, good works, etc. to) Jesus Christ – Romans 4:5

If you know you’ll be at the second Christmas then it is your responsibility to share your faith in Jesus Christ with your family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.

Merry Christmas!

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