December 25

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: — Luke 2:10 BSB

The Christmas spirit should be a spirit of humility. Beside that beautiful image of the Manger, the Cradle, and the humble Child, what Christian heart could ever wish to be proud? It is a spirit of joy. These truly are glad tidings, as the angels declared, "Behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people."

It is also a spirit of love. Christmas joy should come from bringing joy to others. The central message of Christmas is Christ, who loved us and came to live among us and die for us. No one who is living for themselves alone has any right to share in its joy.

Love is always sacrificial, and so the Christmas spirit calls us to a joyful and full surrender—first to God, and then the joyful sacrifice of what we hold dear for His glory and the good of others.

The Christmas spirit is a spirit of worship. We see the Magi at His feet with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Let it also find us there, offering Him our hearts.

The Christmas spirit is a spirit of mission. Its glad tidings are for all people.