Do You Remember Your First Real Christmas? ∙∙
You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:32
Isaiah 9:2 The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.
A Life-Changing Encounter at UCLA
Several decades ago, an intriguing event took place during a fraternity dinner at UCLA that left a lasting impression on those involved. The evening took an unexpected turn when one of the brothers announced that a Christian speaker would visit the all-Jewish fraternity to discuss the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The announcement elicited laughter and disbelief among the fraternity brothers; many thought it was a prank or a joke to lighten the mood.
However, despite their initial reactions, the scheduled Wednesday night event attracted significant attention. That evening, more than 200 students filled the fraternity’s spacious living and dining rooms, eager to see how this unique event would unfold. The atmosphere was a mix of skepticism and genuine curiosity as attendees whispered and speculated about how such a discussion would fit within an all-Jewish setting.
The speaker was part of a broader effort by Campus Crusade for Christ, now known as Cru, which was known for innovative ways of sharing the gospel. Among the diverse crowd were five Jewish fraternity brothers who, driven by pure curiosity, decided to attend. They understood the cultural and religious differences involved but were interested in hearing a perspective outside their own experience.
As the evening went on, these students and their peers engaged in a thoughtful dialogue that challenged their preconceived ideas and broadened their understanding. The event became more than just a presentation; it turned into an opportunity for exploration and conversation about the identity and life of Jesus.
Skepticism Meets the Gospel
One of the young men found it utterly absurd that an intelligent, educated person could believe in what he considered to be Christian mythology. To him, the idea that a man could be God, born of a virgin, resurrected from the dead, and die for the sins of the world seemed preposterous and rooted in nonsensical myths.
The speaker that evening was Hal Lindsey, who would later become widely known as the author of The Late Great Planet Earth. After he delivered his presentation, Hal was approached by the skeptical student, who began to bombard him with questions. Instead of dismissing the student’s doubts, Hal invited him to meet on campus at a time that was convenient for the student. He encouraged the student to bring his own Bible and assured him they could discuss any questions he had, using the student’s personal copy of the Scriptures as their source.
A Journey to Faith
The student accepted Hal’s invitation, and for five weeks, they met regularly. During these sessions, Hal patiently and thoughtfully answered every question the student asked. Over time, the student began to see the Bible not just as an ordinary book but as the very Word of God. He also came to understand that Jesus Christ was not merely an ordinary man but the promised Messiah of Israel.
This realization prompted the student to make a life-changing decision. He prayed and accepted Jesus Christ as his Messiah and Savior. Later that year, he joyfully celebrated his first Christmas, understanding its true meaning for the very first time.
The True Meaning of Christmas
For over two thousand years, people worldwide have celebrated the miraculous birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. However, for many, the true meaning of Christmas often gets lost amid the season’s hustle and bustle. To those observing from the sidelines, the holiday may seem to revolve around cozy family gatherings, twinkling festive decorations, the excitement of exchanging gifts, and delicious feasts that tantalize the senses. While these cherished traditions add warmth and joy to the season, they can sometimes obscure the profound significance at the heart of this celebration.
Christmas is more than just a holiday; it is a sacred remembrance of the birth of the Savior, the Light of the World, who came to offer salvation to all who accept Him. It is a time to reflect on the deep meaning of this gift, lighting up our lives with love, grace, and purpose.
REFLECT & PRAY
John 8:12: “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness because you will have the light that leads to life.”
Father, thank You for providing the Savior and Redeemer. Thank You for opening my eyes to see and receive Him as my Savior and Lord. May His light continue to guide me and bring hope to the world.
INSIGHT
The Spirit of Christmas: More Than a Season
For many, Christmas is a time of beauty, joy, and celebration. This festive atmosphere is vividly depicted in literature, film, and television, all of which echo the “Spirit of Christmas” that permeates the season. Yet, beyond the goodwill and cheer lies a more profound significance. At its core, Christmas honors the birth of the Savior of the world, a pivotal moment that transformed history and brought hope to humanity.
This holiday invites us to reflect on themes of love, family, and redemption, encouraging us to embrace the values that unite us. Whether through cherished traditions, gatherings with loved ones, or acts of kindness towards those in need, Christmas serves as a reminder of the profound impact of compassion in our lives.
The Good News of Great Joy
Luke 2:10-12: “The angel reassured them. ‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior, yes, the Messiah, the Lord, has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.’”
The announcement of Jesus’ birth was a proclamation of good news for everyone. The Savior, the long-awaited Messiah, had arrived to bring salvation and light to a world shrouded in darkness. This moment fulfilled centuries of prophecy, a divine promise realized in the humble setting of Bethlehem.
The Promise of Light in Darkness
The Old Testament predicted the arrival of the Messiah, who would lead people from spiritual darkness into the light of salvation.
Isaiah 9:2: “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.”
This prophecy pointed to the coming of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, who would illuminate the way to redemption. His arrival was more than just a historical event; it was a transformative moment for everyone who would believe in Him.
Salvation: A Personal Decision
The birth of Jesus Christ is a significant historical event, supported by evidence, including historical records and biblical prophecy. The Nativity story, which highlights the humble circumstances of His birth in Bethlehem, fulfills many Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing the divine purpose behind His coming into the world.
However, salvation involves more than just acknowledging these historical facts. It is about accepting and believing in the Person they reveal, and entering into a personal relationship with Him. Salvation is profoundly personal and requires an individual decision to trust in Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Each person must make a conscious, personal choice to trust in Jesus, surrender their lives, and acknowledge His authority. This decision results in a transformation that goes beyond knowledge; it’s about experiencing forgiveness, renewal, and the assurance of eternal life.
Luke 2:25-32: “At that time, there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout, eagerly awaiting the Messiah’s coming to rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day, the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!’”
Simeon’s encounter with the infant Jesus was a moment of profound fulfillment and faith. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Simeon recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah and embraced Him as his Savior. This act of faith serves as a model for all who seek salvation. Just as Simeon believed, anyone can choose to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
Becoming a Child of God
The invitation to salvation is open to all people. It is not limited by their background, status, or past mistakes. The promise of becoming a child of God is extended to everyone who believes in and accepts Jesus Christ.
John 1:12: “To all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”
At the core of Christmas lies the incredible opportunity to embrace the greatest gift of all, salvation through Jesus Christ. It’s a celebration of God’s boundless love, grace, and faithfulness, serving as a reminder that the Light of the World has come to bring hope and life to all who believe.
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© Dr. H 2025
Dr H Reflections 