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Questions at Christmas Read: Matthew 16:13–21 Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 47–48; 1 John 3 “But what about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Matthew 16:15 Well before the calendar flips to December, Christmas cheer begins to bubble up in our northern town. A medical office drapes its trees and shrubs in close-fitting strings of lights, each a different color, illuminating a breathtaking nighttime landscape. Another business decorates its building to look like an enormous, extravagantly wrapped Christmas present. It’s difficult to turn anywhere without seeing evidence of Christmas spirit—or at least seasonal marketing. Some people love these lavish displays. Others take a more cynical view. But the crucial question isn’t how others observe Christmas. Rather, we each need to consider what the celebration means to us. A little more than thirty years after His birth, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do people say the of Man is?” (Matthew 16:13). They gave responses others had given: John the Baptist, Elijah, maybe another prophet. Then Jesus made it personal: “Who do you say I am?” (v. 15). Peter replied, “You are the Messiah, the of the living God” (v. 16). Many will celebrate Christmas without a thought about who the Baby really is. As we interact with them, we can help them consider these crucial questions: Is Christmas just a heartwarming story about a baby born in a stable? Or did our Creator visit His creation and become one of us? Father in heaven, may our Christmas celebrations this year, whether lavish or small, honor the Messiah who came to redeem His creation. Who do you say Jesus is? 
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For a few years now, we have foregone the decorations of Christmas in our house. I think about doing it, but just don't make the effort to do it, and say that maybe someday I will do it again. I never forget the reason we celebrate Christmas, or for that matter, Easter, which is THE most important event of all. But the truth is I celebrate them every day of my life so as I get older, just as my own birthday has become, His birthday is just another day to me. I do enjoy all the festive atmosphere that surrounds the holiday season. Be a prism, spreading God's light and love, not a mirror reflecting the world's hatred.
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