“What? Jesus’s birthday is on Christmas?” A co-worker had witnessed a birthday revelation. 

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One of my coworkers shared a December conversation she had witnessed between their family’s foster children: Andrea* and Brent.*

Andrea announced at the table one evening, “My birthday is four days before Christmas on the twenty-one.” She held up two fingers then one.

Brother Brent rolled his eyes and mumbled, “I already know that.”

Andrea asked, “Know who else has a birthday close to mine?”

“Cap’n Crunch?” Brent snickered.

“No, silly, it’s Jesus!”

Brent sat up in his chair, widened his eyes, and exclaimed, “What? Jesus’ birthday is on Christmas?”

He looked at the adults in the room one by one as they confirmed his new revelation: Jesus, indeed, celebrates His birthday on Christmas.

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

~Isaiah 9:6 NLT

Look around. Ever wonder if Brent’s revelation would also surprise many adults? Trees, gifts, jingle bells, holiday parties and gatherings, festive clothes and funny sweaters, feasts, and decorated cookies abound, but how obvious is Jesus in our celebration of His birthday?

And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.

~Matthew 1:21 NLT

It is up to us who know the story to connect the dots for others who have not heard the Good News of Jesus and His Christmas birthday. It is also up to us to remind those who may have forgotten. Shiny gift tags with “Jesus Is the Reason” printed on the front or a nativity set displayed on the front lawn are a start but might be the easy way out. We need to celebrate Jesus’s birthday in practical and intentional ways that those around us see, feel, and know.

This year—and especially over the next few weeks—let’s teach by example. Let’s show others a celebration that includes light, love, peace, and joy. Let’s show our neighbors, friends, and family how our Christmas focuses on the baby in the manger who is now our Savior and Lord.

What are some specific ways you can focus your celebration more on its original purpose?

Dear God, thank You for sending Your Son as the ultimate gift. Please open my heart to make more room for Him in this season. Prompt me to keep Christ at the center of Christmas this year. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genre: Nonfiction

Copyright 2022: A Birthday Revelation: Cynthia Mendenhall: All Rights Reserved