Why We Say "Merry Christmas": Focusing on Christ this Season
One should not be afraid or ashamed to say “Merry Christmas” to others. Be gracious in exclaiming “Merry Christmas” back to those around you who greet you than to sneer at those who offer the greeting.
All pagan and idolatrous memories of pagan Rome have long been detached from the phrase, just as they have been detached from the calendar, the Olympic Games, and Halloween/All Souls Day.
Focus on Christ as you reflect on the following passages during the rest of December:
Old Testament Prophecies & Foreshadowing:
Genesis 3:15: This is the first Messianic prophecy in the Bible, hinting at a future savior who will crush the serpent (Satan). It sets the stage for God's plan of salvation through Jesus.
Deuteronomy 18:18: Moses prophesies about a prophet like himself who God will raise up. This is understood to be a prophecy about Jesus.
Isaiah 7:14: This verse speaks of a virgin who will conceive and bear a son named Immanuel ("God with us"). Matthew's Gospel directly connects this to Jesus' birth.
Isaiah 9:6: This passage describes the coming Messiah as a child who will be born and given titles like "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 53: This chapter portrays the suffering servant who will bear the sins of many. It foreshadows Jesus' sacrificial death and its purpose.
Micah 5:2: This verse prophesies that the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem.
New Testament Fulfillment:
Matthew 2:1-12: This recounts the visit of the Magi, who followed a star to find the newborn king of the Jews. It fulfills the prophecy of Micah 5:2.
Luke 2: This chapter details the circumstances of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, including the angels' announcement to the shepherds.
John 1:14: This profound verse declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." It speaks of Jesus' incarnation, the core of the Christmas story.
Galatians 4:4: This verse emphasizes that Jesus was born at the appointed time in God's plan.
Hebrews 10:5: This verse quotes Psalm 40:6-8, highlighting Jesus' obedience to God's will in coming to earth.
Colossians 2:9: This verse declares that in Christ, all the fullness of God dwells bodily. It emphasizes the divine nature of Jesus.
Christmas is NOT a church event. December (like any other month) is a perfect time for meaningful conversations and deep reflections on why the Father sent Jesus Christ into the world—an amazing act that forms the foundation of our salvation.