This is the day that we celebrate the nativity of Jesus the Christ. Interestingly, scholars think that Jesus was actually born sometime in the spring. And yet the feast day of his nativity was set at the end of December.
Well, in the long days of darkness, people need a celebration of light. In the spring, the church has the celebration of Easter. Something was needed in the dead of winter. Also, the Romans had a big winter festival at the end of December. All of the people were busy with their revelries. But the followers of Jesus eschewed Roman God’s and Roman festivities. So, they came up with a season of celebration of their own: Christmas, the feast day of the nativity of Jesus. And the 12 days following, up until Epiphany, the celebration of the wise ones visiting Jesus. So, Christians had their own festival. Twelve days worth. And that celebration has now become the most celebrated holiday in the world! (Thank you, Santa, presents, shopping, and capitalism!)
But for those who are followers of Jesus, or attempting to be followers of Jesus, regardless of when he was actually born, the celebration of Christmas, of Jesus’ birthday, is a celebration of JOY! Of the love of God breaking into human history in an earth shattering way! That has changed history for all time. And that has impacted our very lives.
The singular characteristic of Christmas is and must be JOY! Whatever is wrong in our lives and in our society and in our world, still Christmas reminds us of the joy that Divine Love intends for all Creation. Joy is subversive in the presence of pain, of sadness, of grief, of despair. Joy!
Mary’s song, the Magnificat explodes with joy! My spirit rejoices. Joy! Looked with favor upon a lowly servant. Joy! All generations will call me blessed. Joy! The Mighty One has done great things for me. Joy! God’s mercy is for the faithful from generation to generation. Joy! Strength scattering the proud. Joy! Brought down the powerful. Joy! Lifted the lowly. Joy! Filled the hungry with good things. Joy! Sent the rich away empty. Joy! Helped Israel and fulfilled the promises to the ancestors. Joy!
Whatever your circumstances this Christmas, make space for JOY!!!
Prayer: Joy to the world! Christ the Savior is born! Amen.
This devotion was prepared by Rev. Kim P. Wells, pastor of Lakewood United Church of Christ in St. Petersburg, FL.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 