God With Us

“ Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”  Matthew1:23 

Christmas was once a moveable feast celebrated at many different times during the year. The choice of December 25, was made by Pope Julius I, in the 4th century A.D., because this coincided with the pagan rituals of Winter Solstice, or Return of the Sun. The intent was to replace the pagan celebration with the Christian one.  Historians have traced some of the current traditions surrounding Father Christmas, or Santa Claus, back to ancient Celtic roots. Father Christmas's elves are the modernization of the "Nature folk" of the Pagan religions; his reindeer are associated with the "Horned God," which was one of the Pagan deities.

Consider that in America, the weeks leading up to Christmas are the biggest shopping weeks of the year. Many retailers make up to 70% of their annual revenue in the month preceding Christmas.

The actual gift givers are different in various countries:
England: Father Christmas
France: Pere Noel (Father Christmas)
Germany: Christkind (angelic messenger from Jesus) She is a beautiful fair haired girl with a shining crown of candles.
Holland: St Nicholas.
Italy: La Befana (a kindly old witch)
Spain and South America: The Three Kings
Russia: In some parts - Babouschka (a grandmotherly figure) in other parts it is Grandfather Frost.
Scandinavia: a variety of Christmas gnomes. One is called Julenisse

Last year alone we find that the following statistics relative to Christmas tree sales:

Real Trees $1.15 billion

Fake trees $901 million

Some would argue that with all these facts why would a “Christian” involve their selves in “Christmas”?  Since the beginning of time the Enemy has always twisted and perverted the divine.  To set aside a time of year to celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ is not only acceptable but also appropriate. 

It all boils down to these three words:  God with us!

I want you to be assured this Christmas season that He is most certainly the reason for the Season!  Everyday should be a day we celebrate Him but why not the 25th of December?  I refuse to surrender any of my 365 days to the enemy.  Let us glorify Him this December 25th!

In the lights and flicker of societies on slot of marketing let it be shouted from the hilltops, God is With Us!!!!!!   He is the “I AM” of the scriptures.  This image of a baby in a manager is only significant if you realize who He is!

He is: King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Rose of Sharon, Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, the mighty God in Christ!

As we all celebrate this Christmas Season let us remember that it is all about Him!  God with us!

He said," I will give you rest." (Mt 11:28-30)

He said," My grace is sufficient."(II cor. 12:19)

"I will direct your steps." (Prov.20:24)

"You can do all things." Phil 4:13)

"It will be worth it." (Rom. 8:28)

He said," I will supply all your needs." (Phil 4:19)

He said," Cast all your cares on me." (1 Pet. 5:7)

You said," I feel all alone." He said," I will never leave you or forsake you. " (Heb. 13:5)

Whatever it is your facing, the challenges of life, know this He is With YOU!

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