Reclaiming the True Spirit of Christmas
As we immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere of Christmas, it’s easy to get caught up in the cultural frenzy and lose sight of the season’s true significance. We’ve inadvertently turned the story of Advent on its head, prioritizing created things over the incarnation of the Creator.
The Glory of the Incarnation
At its core, Christmas is about the miraculous event of God becoming human to rescue us from our bondage to creation. Yet, for many, the holiday has become a celebration of materialism, with decorating and acquiring taking center stage. This misguided focus can lead to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, as we attempt to fill our lives with beautiful things that ultimately fail to satisfy our deepest longings.
A Metaphor for Our Deepest Desires
Perhaps our approach to Christmas is a reflection of our broader desires as humans. We all want to adorn our lives with beautiful things, hoping they will bring us joy and fulfillment. But this pursuit is ultimately futile, leaving us unfulfilled and restless.
Celebrating the Incarnation
In his new Advent devotional, Paul David Tripp invites us to refocus our attention on the glory of the incarnation. Through 31 daily readings, he equips us to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – the rescue of humanity through the birth of God’s Son. By doing so, we can break free from the bondage of materialism and find lasting satisfaction in Christ’s redemption.
Rediscovering the Heart of Christmas
It’s not wrong to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season, but let’s not forget what Christmas is truly about. As we decorate our homes and exchange gifts, let’s remember that these things are mere symbols of a greater reality – the incarnation of the Creator, who came to rescue us from our false hopes and deepest fears.
About the Author
Paul David Tripp is a pastor, award-winning author, and international conference speaker. His ministry exists to connect the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life. He has written numerous books, including Lead, Parenting, and the bestselling devotional New Morning Mercies.
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