The Spirit of Christmas

Have you ever heard the phrase “in the spirit of Christmas”? It means in the nature/feeling of Christmas. You see, there is something about this holiday that has a specific emotion. It is joyful. It inspires giving, love, compassion, generosity, warmth, and joy. Obviously this isn’t true for everyone but it is the general nature of the holiday. It can bring out the best in people. That’s why it’s exciting when the time is finally here and why so many people longingly wait for its arrival.

I was thinking about this phrase and God showed me something: The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christmas. When you look at Galatians 5:22-23a CSB, it says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” These are the same qualities that come with the holiday season. People work to be better/more intentional and display these qualities in the spirit of Christmas but it isn’t the spirit of Christmas, it’s the Holy Spirit. 

This shows us that it isn’t Christmas people are longing for, it’s the Holy Spirit and Jesus.  Yes, there is a whole aesthetic to Christmas. The decorations are bright, beautiful, and grand. But if this holiday was filled with violence and trauma, it wouldn’t be anticipated at all. What’s special is the character of Christmas; the character of the Lord. 

As we are celebrating today, let us not be ashamed to talk about Jesus. Let us introduce people to (or remind them of) Him and allow the Holy Spirit to work from there. People are yearning for the Lord and we must be the light that points the way to Him. Be intentional, prayerful, and Spirit led as you celebrate. Allow God to use you to bring the Good News and represent Him in your interactions so that people realize it is Him they are longing for.

Merry Christmas!

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