The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

It’s once again the time of year that our world is invaded by the commercial glitz and glamour of the Christmas season. We plan special meals to share with family and friends. We take special trips and participate in traditional holiday activities. We watch the requisite seasonal movies. As the songwriter put it, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”

In 1957 the book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was written by the beloved Dr. Seuss, and the story became even more popular 10 years later when it was transformed into a cartoon. Now this classic animated tale has become an essential part of the Christmas season. One of the more delightful parts is the little ditty we all remember, the Grinch song: “You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch. You really are a heel. You’re as cuddly as a cactus; you’re as charming as an eel. Mr. Grinch, you’re a bad banana, with a greasy black peel. You’re a monster, Mr. Grinch. Your heart is an empty hole. Your brain is full of spiders; you’ve got garlic in your soul. Mr. Grinch, I wouldn’t touch you with a 10 foot pole. You’re a villain, Mr. Grinch. You have termites in your smile. You have all the tender sweetness, of a seasick crocodile.” The song is of course intended to characterize the Grinch as a cynical, pessimistic and generally unappealing fellow. In short, the Grinch has become synonymous with the type of person who is so miserable they want everyone else to share their misery!

As this Christmas season comes upon us Americans there seems much to be concerned with, both on a national level and globally. The general feeling of discouragement prevailing within our society would certainly make the Grinch “happy” I suppose!

But as Christians we should focus our attention this Christmas on the true reason we celebrate the season, the Divine One who invaded history, and who continues to have all authority, both in Heaven and on earth!

So don’t let the “Grinch’s” come along and ruin your Christmas celebration. Light the tree and let’s be jolly, Christ has come to a world of folly!

Enjoy the celebration by remembering It’s not to be based on present circumstances, but rather on whom it is we are celebrating.

“and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins” Mt 1:21.

See ya Sunday!
Pastor