Sensations of Christmas
“… It is I myself! Touch me and see…” (Luke 24:39)
Christmas comes to us through all our senses:
- Sight: Christmas trees sparkle with tinsel and ornaments; lights strung on buildings glow in the dark of a winter night; candles flicker in churches and homes as a promise of the Light.
- Sound: carols are played everywhere; choirs, great and small, perform seasonal works; bell ringers’ bells remind us that the greatest rewards are found in giving.
- Smell: gingerbread baking in the kitchen; evergreen scents from tree, wreath and garland; fruit and spices add a rich note in stores and homes.
- Touch: the softness of a special, seasonal sweater; smooth yet spiky holly leaves, all the textures of the costumes the children will wear for the “Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”
We move through, participate in, and observe all the joys of the season. There is so much to do, plans to make, presents to buy, so many people we want to visit and so little time to accomplish all we have on our schedules. Yet we long for more, for meaning as well as all the sensations of the season.
If we are wise “in Christ” we will find meaning only when we put a premium on praise as the most joyful expression of Christmas.
Praise is not only the greatest meaning of Christmas it is the greatest meaning of life! The person who knows much or the person who knows little are equal if their hearts are filled with praise for Messiah. The one who knows everything or the one who knows nothing please the Father equally when they are on their knees in praise for Emmanuel!
Praise is truly the “Hand of the Spirit” that touches the wonder of Jesus in the manger! “I will praise you, Oh God, with all my heart …” (Psalm 138:1)
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