Roll Out the Red Carpet for the Guest of Honor

Many have the notion that the BIGGEST DEAL about Christmas is that it’s simply a month-long party.  Yes, the traditions and festivities are so enjoyable, but rolling out the red carpet and recognizing the Guest of Honor is what this awe-inspiring season is all about.  And…..it’s up to us to ensure the predominant Honoree is positioned in His rightful place of distinction.

I love the story of St. Nicholas.  He was a very kind man and had a reputation for helping the poor and giving secret gifts to people who needed it.  And that story inspires us all with a heart of giving.   St. Nicholas is where “Santa Claus” came from.    But, as sweet as those “treasured” photos of Santa Claus with our little ones are, and seeing their little eyes sparkling with wonder, and putting cookies out for this jolly old soul to pay us a visit, Santa ISN’T the “Guest of Honor”.  

The leading characters of the Christmas Story are Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, and, of course, the Headliner, the main Attraction and the Star of the Show is Jesus Christ.  He is the REASON for the celebrations and He should be the Guest of Honor at each one.  I love that we have a role to play in this great story, too.  Perhaps we can be one of the shepherds.  We don’t need eloquent words and we don’t need a place of prominence or status. We just need to be bearers and sharers of “the good news of great joy”.

People expect pastors and priests to talk about Christmas being about Christ.  But what people need are shepherds of the world to teach and preach that message.

You and I have the ability to amaze someone today with the message of Christmas. “For God so loved the world He GAVE His one and only Son.” Let’s keep our eyes and hearts open for the opportunity to amaze someone with the most precious of all GIFTS this Christmas — in fact not just at Christmas — all year long!

Even Santa bows down to Him as the Guest of Honor.