The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him.
John 1:9‭-‬10 NLT

These words declare the meaning of Christmas. The Creator came in human flesh to be with us. To die for us. To give us light and life. Forever.

It’s easy to recognize Him on a greeting card or in a Nativity scene. We first meet Him wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger. (see Luke 2:11 and 12)

I learned the beauty of the Christmas story as a child. Baby Jesus’s arrival seemed to make the world stand still. But the world didn’t recognize His worth.

Only a few chosen worshipers surrounded Him. His mother, Mary and earthly father, Joseph, flanked His manger in awe.

Wise men led by a star and shepherds instructed by an angel were privileged to be in His presence. (see Matthew 2:1-12 and Luke 2:1-20)

And yet, as a child, the lights decorating the season fascinated me. Looking back, I see they were a prop God used to get my attention. Hence,

The Light of Christmas series begins with a reflection on Christmas past.

In my childhood home, minutes turned into hours as I sat and watched my family’s Christmas tree. Shifting shadows danced on the ceiling, choreographed by twinkling lights resting on flocked (think of fake snow-covered) branches.

Delicate hues of blue, gold, green and red took turns being absorbed by the ivory-colored tree. Each hue got its hint from the rotating color wheel shining a few feet away.

The slowly turning disc resembled a pie chart with four equal parts of stained glass. The wheel’s motor hummed its magic while the heat from the light bulbs warned my small hands to stay at a safe distance.

This was my first “light of Christmas” memory.

The true significance of the lights deepened in my understanding over time. Eventually, their beauty was eclipsed by Jesus, the Light of the World. He shatters the darkness of sin, sorrow and fear. The true light never fades.

What was your first “light of Christmas” memory?

Christmas past for many of us includes loved ones who are no longer here or places that are miles away. It harkens memories made over hot cocoa or memories we’d rather forget.

Similarly, our cherished present day moments and our current challenges will eventually have past Christmas status too. Like the dancing shadows on the ceiling of my childhood home, few things stay the same.

Thankfully, God always does.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. – James 1:17 NIV

The Light of Christmas comes from above. Every good and perfect gift awaits us in every moment because of Him. But if we’re only focused on the earth below, “the good and perfect” may seem distant.

Having child-like faith as we pray, sing or meditate on why Christ came, can enrich or restore the “merry” in our Christmas.

The past may prompt reflection but the present creates an opportunity to focus on the One who gives hope for the heart and joy to the soul.