The Reason For The Season?
Unwrapping the True Meaning of the Season
As the world prepares for Christmas with decorations, gifts, and festivities, it’s important for believers to pause and reflect on the true reason for the season. Beyond the cultural traditions lies a profound truth at the heart of the celebration: the incarnation of Jesus Christ, God’s greatest gift to humanity.
The Promise of a Savior
Long before the birth of Jesus, God promised a Redeemer who would save His people from their sins. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies pointing forward to the coming Messiah.
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14 ASV
“Immanuel” means “God with us.” The anticipation of God coming to dwell among His people is the foundation of the Christmas story. This promise was fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ.
The Fulfillment in Christ
The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of God’s promise. The birth of Jesus is not merely the arrival of a great moral teacher, but the incarnation of God Himself—fully God and fully man.
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father), full of grace and truth. - John 1:14 ASV
This miraculous event—the Word becoming flesh—is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is a demonstration of God’s love and grace, as He entered into human history to accomplish the work of salvation.
The Purpose of Christ’s Coming
Why did Jesus come? Scripture gives a clear answer: He came to save sinners and reconcile us to God.
For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost. - Luke 19:10 ASV
And she shall bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name JESUS; for it is he that shall save his people from their sins. - Matthew 1:21 ASV
The name “Jesus” itself means “the Lord saves.” The heart of the Christmas message is that God sent His Son to rescue us from sin and bring us into right relationship with Himself.
Salvation by Grace Through Faith
The gift of salvation offered through Jesus is not something we can earn; it is given freely by God’s grace. This is the greatest gift ever given.
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV
Just as we receive gifts at Christmas, we are called to receive God’s gift of salvation by trusting in Jesus Christ alone.
Responding to the Reason for the Season
As we celebrate this season, let us remember that the true reason is not found in material things, but in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Our response should be worship, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to share this good news with others.
Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift. - 2 Corinthians 9:15 ASV
May this season be marked by reflection on God’s love, joy in the gift of His Son, and a desire to make known the Savior who is the true reason for the season.