Christmas Spirit
By Raymond Smith
Political Correctness challenges accepted norms and in a changing culture there are changing attitudes. Some of the challenges can be seen around the celebration of Christmas. Mention Christmas Spirit and it will mean different things to different people. Avid readers may reflect on the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future that visited Scrooge in Dickens Christmas Carol. Drinkers would think of another kind of spirit!
But as we reflect on the Christmas Spirit we will be guided to the ideas of peace, joy and goodwill. These were manifested 100 years ago in a Christmas truce. As opposing armies stopped fighting, played football in a Flanders field and sang Silent night. It would be another 4 years before the guns would be silent again.
The true reason for the season is Immanuel – God with us. The Holy Spirit was actively involved in the incarnation of Jesus.
We find in Luke’s account of the Christmas narrative mention of the Holy Spirit. Who worked in the lives of the yet to be born John the Baptist (1:15), Mary (1:35), Elizabeth (1:41), Zacharias (1:67) and Simeon (2:25-27). The Holy Spirit filled Zacharias and Elizabeth, created the baby in Mary’s womb and guided Simeon.
He would later come to comfort and empower the Disciples.
I hope Christmas will bring you the peace, joy and goodwill of the season and the power of the Holy Spirit working in your life.
Happy Christmas!
