If you are like me, certain images come to mind when you
hear the word "Christmas." For many
Americans, the idea of Christmas brings up images of time with family. Perhaps you envision logs burning in a
fireplace with stockings hung around.
Perhaps you imagine a turkey dinner and presents. My Bulgarian neighbors probably think of a
meatless meal with an odd number of dishes including stuffed peppers, a fruit
drink, and a loaf of bread with a coin hidden in it. My Polish friends might think of a meal with
delicious fish. I always imagined those
in Australia associating Christmas with a warm summer’s day. Regardless of where you are from, the idea of
Christmas often brings up thoughts of comfort and joy.
Yet, when I think about what Christmas really represents it
seems strange that Christmas and comfort are nearly synonyms. Jesus left His heavenly dwelling to be born
in a barn surrounded by stench and discomfort.
He entered enemy territory in a way that left Him totally vulnerable,
and from a very early age there were people who sought to murder Him.
When I think about the last century, the closest event I can
find to equate with the first Christmas is D-Day. The Allied troops stormed into enemy
territory to rescue Europe from an evil socialist dictator. They did so knowing full well that many of
them would die. They knew that they were
vulnerable with ever step they took along those sandy beaches, yet they fought
and died anyway, and the world was changed for the better by their sacrifice.
Jesus entered enemy territory and faced death to save us. He endured much discomfort, great sorrow,
unbearable pain, and death. This was the
ultimate mission in a war, not day of comfort and joy. It was the beginning of a hard fought victory
of light over darkness.
His victory is what allows us to celebrate in comfort and
joy. Because of what He did for us, we
have absolute assurance of our salvation.
There is no greater comfort and joy than knowing that we have been made
right with God.
I am immensely grateful for what Jesus did for me. When I enjoy this comfortable and joyful
season with my family here in Bulgaria, I will remember the source of an even greater comfort and joy. And I will rejoice.
