Why the Grinch got it Right!

In the classic children’s book How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss there is a crucial moment in the tale when the Grinch finally realizes that he can’t keep Christmas from coming.

“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

Christmas can be a very busy season for most of us. It’s easy to become distracted by well-meaning things like decorations, gift giving, and holiday gatherings with family and friends.

Each of these are important and definitely have their place as we celebrate Christ’s birth, but if we’re not careful they can crowd out and “steal” the peace and joy which Christ came to bring us…the true meaning of Christmas.

As we surround ourselves with all of these wonderful things this Christmas season, let’s each take time to remember that Christmas IS a little bit more.

The following Scripture verses have always helped me to do that:

^“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ^‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’” Luke 2:10-14

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

As we celebrate this Christmas season, take time to reflect on why Christmas “means a little bit more”. It means God sent His son Jesus to live among us. It means peace can be had between God and all men and women. It means the promise of a Messiah, a deliverer from sin and death, is fulfilled. “Joy to the World, the Lord is Come”! Feel free to reach out to me via the church’s e-mail if you would like to speak more about finding true peace and joy this Christmas.

Merry Christmas…don’t let the Grinches try to steal your joy!