Is Christmas a delight or distress?
SOUL SNACK 9/223 ... A Tale of Two Princes
"When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.' Matt 2:3
Underneath Christmas trees across the world can be found small, diligent children. Their inquiring minds are consumed with a search. This search is accompanied by a greatly heightened sense of anticipation. These all encompassing efforts are based on the knowledge that Christmas is all about receiving very good things for free. Even toddlers are fully aware of the possible benefits that are available to them. No wonder they willingly expend such efforts.
Yet, to many that first Christmas brought great distress. An entire city was troubled! Maybe they just did not get it! Maybe they did not want the rule of peace, justice and righteousness!
Babies are not meant to bring distress. They are to bring joy! Some however, Magi, shepherds and even angels did find joy!
Through that first Christmas the prince of the air is replaced by the Prince of Peace. Those who do not understand, or do not want to understand, will miss out! Distress because of Christmas should not happen.