The Weekly Perspective

by TJ Draper, Deacon

Christ is come! Advent gives way to Christmas. As you give gifts to each other tomorrow, remember the gift of Christ the King, who’s birth and life we celebrate this season.

While some may (rightly) decry a consumerism that has taken over Christmas, the giving of gifts, when done to bless others and to graciously receive blessing from others, is a right and fitting way to celebrate. God the father did not withhold his only Son from us, and we do not withhold our gifts from our loved ones.

Perhaps many of you have been burdened with the preparation of the season, the baking, the cookies, the hustle and the bustle. All good things. But now, as Christmas is upon us, I hope you’ll stop and take stock of the many blessings you have, and what Jesus has given you. We celebrate Eternity stepping into time to become fully God and fully man. The time of preparation is past and now is the time to bask in the glory of the Savior. Read the Christmas story to your family, proclaim with joy, “Thanks be to God!”

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

— Isaiah 9:6–7