Christmas is Love: A Reflection on the Joy of Christ's Birth

Introduction
As we gather to celebrate the third week of Advent, we light the Joy candle, also known as the Shepherd's candle. This candle represents the joy of Christ's coming and the celebration of His birth. The pink color signifies a shift from repentance to joy as we draw closer to Christmas. Today, we reflect on the profound message that Christmas is love, a love that casts out fear and brings us closer to God.

The Joy of Christ's Birth

What Does the Joy Candle Represent?
The Joy candle symbolizes the joy that Christ's birth brings to the world. In Matthew 2:10-11, we read about the wise men who were overjoyed upon seeing the star and finding the child with His mother, Mary. They bowed down and worshipped Him, presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This joy is a reflection of the love that God has for us, a love that is evident in the birth of Jesus.

The Significance of the Pink Candle
The pink candle marks a shift from repentance to joy. As we light this candle, we celebrate the joy that Jesus brings into our lives. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a deep-seated sense of happiness and contentment that comes from knowing Christ. It is a joy that we are called to share with others, letting it shine through our words and actions.

The Love of God

Jesus Christ: The Light of the World
Jesus Christ is the light of the world, reigning forever as the King of Kings. His love is on display for all to see, covering all our sins and bringing hope and peace into our lives. This love is a perfect love that drives out fear, as stated in 1 John 4:18. Perfect love and fear cannot coexist, and the love of Christ casts out all fear.

The Apostle Paul's Explanation of Love
In 1 Corinthians 13, the Apostle Paul explains what love is and what it isn't. Love is patient, kind, and does not envy or boast. It is not proud, does not dishonor others, and is not self-seeking. Love always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. Paul concludes by saying that the greatest of these is love. This love is the foundation of our faith and our actions.

The Fear of Obedience

Mary's Story: Overcoming Fear
Mary, a young girl with her life planned out, was met with an unexpected challenge when the angel Gabriel appeared to her. She was confused and disturbed, but the angel reassured her, saying, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30). What seemed like an interruption in her life was actually an invitation to a greater purpose. Mary's response, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true" (Luke 1:38), shows her shift from fear to confidence in God's love.

The Fear of Obedience in Our Lives
Many of us live in fear of fully obeying God, afraid that it will take away our fun or require sacrifices. However, the love of Christmas drives out this fear. When God tells us to do something, we can trust that it is for our good and His greater plan. We don't have to be afraid of what God tells us to do because His love casts out fear.

The Fear of What Others Think

Joseph's Story: Choosing God's Approval Over People's Approval
Joseph faced a dilemma when he found out that Mary was pregnant. He was afraid of what others would think and decided to break the engagement quietly. However, an angel appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife" (Matthew 1:20). Joseph chose to obey God rather than fear people's opinions, and as a result, he played a crucial role in the birth of Jesus.

Overcoming the Fear of People's Opinions
We often fear what others think about us, but Christmas reminds us that we don't have to be afraid. Pleasing God may mean disappointing others, but God's approval is what truly matters. When we are obsessed with what God thinks about us, we can let go of the fear of people's opinions.

The Fear of Where We Stand with God

The Shepherds' Story: Good News for All People
The shepherds, considered outcasts, were the first to hear the announcement of Jesus' birth. An angel appeared to them, saying, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10). This message of love and acceptance was for everyone, including those who felt unworthy.

Knowing God's Love for Us
Many of us struggle with feelings of unworthiness, thinking we could never be good enough for God's love. However, Christmas is a reminder that God's love is for everyone. We don't have to be afraid of where we stand with God because His love is unconditional and all-encompassing.

Life Application

Embracing God's Love
This week, take time to reflect on the love that God has for you. Close your eyes and imagine what it feels like to be loved by the author of love. Stay in that place until you feel it and believe it. God's love is real and powerful, and it casts out all fear.

Questions to Reflect On
1. What fears are holding you back from fully obeying God?

2. How can you let go of the fear of what others think about you?

3. Do you struggle with feelings of unworthiness? How can you embrace God's unconditional love for you?

A Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to act out of love rather than fear. Whether it's reaching out to someone in need, making a difficult decision, or simply spending time in prayer, let God's love guide your actions. Remember that Christmas is love, and love casts out fear.

Conclusion
Christmas is a powerful reminder of God's love for us. It is a love that drives out fear and brings us closer to Him. As we celebrate this season, let us embrace the love of Christ and let it shine through our words and actions. May we spread this joy to others and live fearlessly, knowing that we are deeply loved by God.