The Christmas Spirit: A Reflection on Humility, Joy, Love, Worship, and Mission
Christmas morning is a time of celebration, reflection, and awe. Today’s words from A.B. Simpson, rooted in Luke 2:10, remind us of the deeper truths that shape this season. The angel’s proclamation to the shepherds—“Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people”—calls us to embrace the true spirit of Christmas, one that transforms our hearts and lives.
A Spirit of Humility
At the center of the Christmas story is a humble Child, born in a manger—a place of simplicity and surrender. This image challenges us to let go of pride and embrace humility. It’s a humility that draws us to Christ, reminding us that God Himself entered into the lowliness of humanity to redeem us. When we see the Manger, we see the ultimate act of condescension: God with us, Emmanuel.
As we celebrate, let us ask ourselves, "Does this season bring me to my knees before Him in awe of His humility? Am I reflecting that humility in my own life?"
A Spirit of Joy
The angel declared the arrival of “great joy,” not just for a select few, but for all people. True joy isn’t rooted in the trappings of the season—though lights and songs have their place—but in the reality that Jesus came to save us.
This joy isn’t fleeting; it’s eternal. It’s the kind of joy that lifts weary hearts and carries us through life’s storms. And because it’s rooted in Christ, it compels us to share it with others. As Simpson reminds us, love and joy go hand in hand, for we cannot truly experience joy without desiring to bring it to others.
A Spirit of Love
Christmas love is sacrificial. Jesus, the perfect Son of God, came to live among us and to die for us. His life was the ultimate expression of love, not for the deserving, but for sinners like us.
When we grasp this love, it moves us beyond ourselves. Simpson writes, “No one who is living for themselves alone has any right to share in its joy.” That’s a powerful statement, isn’t it? True love calls us to surrender—to give ourselves first to God and then to others. This season invites us to ask, "How can I bring Christ’s love to someone who needs it today?"
A Spirit of Worship
The Magi traveled far to worship the King. They brought their gifts, but more importantly, they brought their hearts. Their journey reflects our call to worship—not just in song or ceremony, but in the daily surrender of our lives to Him.
Christmas invites us to draw near to Jesus, offering Him the gift He desires most: our hearts. It’s a call to spend time in His presence, to marvel at His goodness, and to let our lives reflect His worth.
A Spirit of Mission
The angel’s announcement was “good news of great joy… for all the people.” The Christmas spirit isn’t something to hoard; it’s a gift to share. Christ came for all—for the broken, the weary, the outcast, and the lost.
This mission doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, it’s in the simple acts of kindness, the quiet moments of prayer, or the gentle words spoken to someone in need. Christmas reminds us that every heart matters to God, and we are His ambassadors, entrusted with the message of hope.
Living the Christmas Spirit
As we reflect on Simpson’s words, let us yield to Christ within us, trusting Him to live His life in us and through us this season. The humility, joy, love, worship, and mission that marked His birth are now made possible in us because of His life. And His life is yours.
This Christmas, let’s allow His Spirit to guide us—whether in quiet worship, sacrificial love, or bold acts of kindness. May we not just celebrate the season but live the heart of it, shining His light to a world in need.
A Prayer for the Christmas Spirit
Father, thank You for the indescribable gift of Jesus, who entered our world in humility to bring us joy, love, and salvation. We yield our hearts to Him, trusting Him to express His life in us and through us this season. May His humility shape our interactions, His joy fill our hearts, His love guide our actions, and His mission direct our steps. Let our worship overflow into lives that reflect Your grace and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Merry Christmas! May His peace, love, and hope fill your heart today and always.