Clergy/Leaders’ Mail-list R-018 [Repeat of CLM 972: 22 Dec 1999]

THREE WAYS TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS (Sermon notes)

The Christmas story is an amazing story, isn’t it? In a few days we celebrate its 2001st anniversary (by our calendar). In fact, it is such an amazing story it leaves you with only 3 ways of celebrating it.

It can be celebrated CYNICALLY – as a time to make money or to endorse the making of it. To profit or even take unfair advantage of those who have a heightened sense of generosity at this time of year. A few years ago, a TV current affairs programme did an expose on charity collectors who collected money for ‘so-called’ children’s work at traffic lights. The money was never intended to go to the children. Instead, it lined the pockets of the organisers.

The second way it can be celebrated is GRACIOUSLY – which I guess is the appropriate attitude for folk who are not Christians but who wish their fellow citizens all the joys to which their beliefs entitle them. It may be a great celebration, but it doesn’t mean a whole lot.

The third way it can be celebrated is REVERENTLY. If this is the anniversary of the appearance of the Lord of the Universe, which I believe it is, then it is a very important day. It means that God, the high and lofty one, He who inhabits eternity, is engaged in actively seeking out a lost and broken humanity. Jesus said “I came to seek and to save the lost. Those who are well do not need a doctor, only the sick need a doctor.”

Each and every person in this room is of infinite value to God. You are the reason why Jesus was born – and you, and you. He was born to give you an invitation. And this is the invitation – (Matthew 11:28) “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”

How do you come? Simply through prayer. Talk to him. Say “God you invited me to come. Well here I am.” The exciting news of Christmas is not only that it’s a reminder of when Christ offered an invitation nearly 2000 years ago. But its also a reminder that the invitation still stands today. It’s still current. It hasn’t been revoked. It’s open to all who would take up the offer. And what better day than Christmas Day to take up his offer.

(Forwarded by CS)