It’s that time of year, when all eyes are focused on Christmas.
Kids are wondering what they are going to get under the tree on Christmas morning. Adults are caught up in shopping and going to parties and preparing for the Christmas feast. I love all the lights and music and the gathering with friends and family this time of year.
But I’m also thankful for the gift of salvation that I’m reminded of this time of year, when I remember the birth of Jesus Christ who was born to be the savior of the world. One of my favorite family traditions is attending Midnight Mass, celebrating the birth of Jesus and the salvation He brings.
Boy, could we all use some saving!
As I read the news, both here in the state and from around the globe, I’m reminded of all the chaos in the world. But it was into a very chaotic environment the Savior was born. The Jews were under brutal Roman rule at the time of his birth. The people had not heard from a prophet of God for over 400 years. But then a light came into the world.
The Apostle John describes it this way: “The life was the light of the human race. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has been unable to overcome it.”
That light is Jesus. He’s the real reason to celebrate Christmas. His light can overcome our own personal darkness and the darkness that exists in the world.
An angel told Joseph to name Mary’s child Jesus, “for He will save His people from their sins.”
The prophet Isaiah said His name shall be called Emmanuel, which means “God with us.”
God used angels to give the news of Jesus’ birth to some shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem. Here’s what they reported: ““Do not be afraid, for I bring you good news of great joy for all the people. For this day in the city of David there has been born to you a Savior who is Christ, the Lord. Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to all on whom His favor rests.”
I hope everyone enjoys some time with family and friends, eating great food, unwrapping the perfect gift, maybe watching a little football. But I hope you also pause to remember the birth of Jesus – the Savior, the Light of the World.
As always, thank You for allowing me to serve you. I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
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Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and parts of LeFlore and Pittsburg counties.
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