Peace On Earth Goodwill to Men

I love Christmas! I'm not an Ebenezer Scrooge about this celebration, holding my breath until the whole affair is over. I dread not the coming but the ending of the "holy days" of Christmas.

I believe we should celebrate Christmas all year - at least it's true meaning and spirit.

Our society has lost sight of Jesus during Christmas, but I don't. I hope you don't either.

When the White House or any other newsworthy organization puts out press release, you can be certain writers have gone over every word. A good press release is clear, strategic and to the point.

Here is heaven press release and it's the simplest explanation of the Gospel that has ever been given.

This is news from another world. For behold, I bring you...
This is good news. Good tidings...
This is joyful news. Of great joy...
This is global news. Which shall be to all people...
This is nativity news. For there is born...
This is personal news. To you...
This is breaking news. This day...
This is Davidic news. In the city of David...
This is saving news. A Savior...
This is Messianic news. Who is Christ...
This is life changing news. The Lord!

This announcement was followed by great rejoicing and celebration. "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:14)

We are used to hearing this version of Luke 2:14 "And on earth peace, goodwill toward men with whom He is pleased. God's peace is directed toward those who have received His favor and grace. Through Jesus Christ we can know the peace of God both now and for all eternity.

Before this Christmas season is over, you will probably sing the lovely words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who penned the poem "Christmas Bells" in 1863.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men.

Just like Longfellow longed for peace on earth just as we do. If you hear the bells on this year's Christmas Day, let them remind you that we sing with joy and tears at Christmas for good reason - salvation came to earth 2,000 years ago and opened the door of eternal life for all who believe. Nothing could be more emotional and worth singing about.

I hope that you enjoy a Christmas filled with the love, favor, and presence of God. 

May you, your family, and your friends be reminded afresh of Who we celebrate - the Savior who gave us the gift of Himself.