Connecting Point: Christmas Choice

Perhaps Americans are more individualistic than any other citizens in the world. But, regarding Christmas, my caution is to choose wisely between fact and fiction. Some embrace the folklore of Santa Claus, reindeer, and elves. Some believe Christmas simply represents giving and receiving of gifts, while others completely abandon any concept of Christmas in any light. I admit I am in the category of people who love Christmas. For the record, my beliefs go far beyond religion or superstition. A Biblical worldview recognizes the ample evidence provided in God’s Word and other historical works that confirm the existence of Jesus Christ, no Christ, no Christmas.

One attribute that Christians practice regularly includes worship; again, there are numerous definitions even among those who follow Jesus. Worship is much more than attending a church service or singing songs. William E. Vine, a trusted theologian, defined worship as: “The direct acknowledgment to God, of his nature, attributes, ways, and claims, whether by the outgoing of the heart in praise and thanksgiving or by deeds done in such acknowledgment.” In short, worship is a lifestyle of choosing honor and obedience to God.

Some have no inclination to “worship” God; in fact, they are scornful of believers. Meanwhile, others choose to mock God altogether. Jude 17-19 reads, “But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, ‘In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.’ These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.”

We also have to be genuine in worship. In the Gospel, according to Matthew, the Magis’ honor and reverence are contrasted to King Herod’s behavior. Herod’s outward behavior masked his evil intentions. Worship is for the wise not the duplicitous. It is obvious that Harod was simply trying to lay a trap for these men who traveled a great distance to see and worship Jesus. Herod was blood-thirsty.

Likewise, worship is never for show, but involves a surrender of the will. Talk is cheap, so they say. Harod was only concerned with his will, and as the prophecy of the Messiah circulated through the region, the threat of a “Newborn King” drove Herod to mass genocide.

As with the Magi of old, today we seek genuine worship. We surrender our will to God. What is your attitude toward worship? Refrain from worship that is tied to feelings and music alone. It is so much more. At the heart, worship is an abandonment of our will to that of the Almighty God. Choose wisely.