Merry Christmas, Jesus!
Have you ever noticed how the radio stations, beginning December 1st of every year, change their on-air playlist? My drive to Willowdale allows me time to do a lot of radio listening. Most of the time, while driving to work, I am tuned into the Message, channel 65 on Sirius XM, or K-Love channel 102.5 on FM. Both K-Love and the Message music stations also pivot to playing Christian Christmas music on December 1st. Driving into work one December morning, I was surprised by what I heard from one of my favorite Christian music stations.
The familiar words “You better watch out, You better not cry, You better not pout, I’m telling you why…Santa Claus is coming to town! He is making a list and checking it twice to find out who is naughty or nice. Santa Claus is coming to town! He sees you when you are sleeping, He knows when you are awake. He knows if you have been bad or good, so be good for goodness’ sake!” Hold up! First, I expect this holiday favourite to be played on a secular radio station. Second, a question for Christians: are Santa and Jesus the same?
Quickly looking over the lyrics gives you the impression that Santa shares the same qualities and abilities as Jesus. Making a list, (separation of good, bad, naughty, and nice), and he knows when you are sleeping or awake. Knowing a little bit about the origins of Santa Claus provides a clue that worldly customs were adapted into culture, communities, and even the church. It is a very festive tune, but the words attributed to Santa Claus find their true and ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus. Jesus oversees the Judgment, and this same Jesus is coming again to rescue the living and awaken the dead.
“Santa Claus is coming to town” finds no match to “Lift up the trumpet, loud let it ring, Jesus is coming again.” During this holiday, many of us will struggle with loneliness, sadness, and isolation. During these challenging times, Jesus is near to comfort, console, and provide His peace. While Santa will eat your cookies, drink your milk, and return home to the North Pole, Jesus has not left us, but He promised to send the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to be with us until He returns. Never lose hope in the everlasting promises for they are faithful and true. Never allow any earthly substitute to replace Jesus as the main reason for this holiday season.
On Sabbath, our youth will lead us in a worship experience that centers on JESUS. We will sing, praise, pray, share a meal, and enjoy each other’s company. As we fellowship together, remember that we have a responsibility to share Jesus through word, action, and deed. Have a Merry Christmas, Willowdale Church family. Maranatha!