In Charles Dickens bestselling novel, A Christmas Carol, which we enjoy at this time each year, Ebenezer Scrooge opened his window, called down to a little boy and asked what day it was. He learned it was Christmas Day. His response was, “It’s Christmas Day! I haven’t missed it.”

Scrooge’s world and his perspective on life changed in one night, in less than eight hours. His perspective was changed from an inward focus to an outward focus. He had learned to celebrate our many gifts on this earth. While Scrooge had all of the material gifts of the earth, he had come to learn that none really mattered.

What about you today: Are you unemployed or anxious about things related to your job? If so, you are likely in a period of waiting and of hoping. I’ve been unemployed on Christmas day before; and I know it is easy to miss out on the specialness of this day. Why? Because our focus tends to be internal – about us and our feelings. Is this how you are feeling today? I don’t want you to miss this day.

Jesus’ birth changed everything for us in one night! While A Christmas Carol is a nice story, it is about the redemption of one person, Ebenezer Scrooge. Jesus’ birth is the story of redemption for all of us, for the whole world. We first learn of this in Luke 2, verse 9, when the Angels delivered that great news:

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord (Luke 2:9).

Our savior came to this earth to save us. So, use this day to rejoice!

I’m confident God has amazing plans in store for you and for me; we just wish we could see them. It’s hard, I know. But instead of focusing on what we can’t see, turn your attention to what you can see on this day:

1) Rejoice because your future is secure in Jesus!

2) Rejoice at the many blessings you have this day: Family, friends, and health.

3) … Continue this list on your own, picking up with number 3. You will be amazed!

While you may have no job, or you might be miserable in your current position, you have many more reasons to be joyful than not. Let yourself celebrate the day. It’s Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas!
Dale & Deb Kreienkamp