Great Expectations
Monday, December 16, 2013 Posted by Sara
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Santa Claus is not a vindictive stalker.
At least, historically speaking. I mean, let's be honest when a man from the north pole "knows when you're sleeping or awake" and "knows when you've been bad or good" it is rather suspect.
Not to mention the not so subtle lyrics which warn, "you better watch out, not pout" or show any signs of emotional breaking - cause "he's coming to town."
Why do we teach this song to our kids, again?
We know so many Christmas traditions are just for fun. But perhaps it would behoove us to take a moment and reflect on how we would really feel if the original Santa - St. Nicholas were to come a knocking.
He was a young bishop, so the story goes, of a town named Myra in Turkey. He was born around 270 A.D. and was known for his unique talent of giving secret gifts - especially to the poor.
One of his specialties?
Paying the dowries of impoverished girls.
Now this is a Santa I'd love to sing about - perhaps because he reminds me of Another who gives so freely.
He reminds me of Another who paid a great price for a bride.
The angels sang a similar "he's coming to town" tune about this One many moons ago.
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11
This Christmas, let us remember that we need not be afraid of One who comes to tell us all the bad we've done. There is GOOD NEWS for all of us - One HAS come to give life everlasting.
He is for you.
Be overcome this season with great expectations - His goodness is after you.
I wonder how it will show up for you this week!