Sermon Central
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The Throne Of Christmas
Contributed by Ross Cochrane on Dec 18, 2010 (message contributor)
THE THRONE OF CHRISTMAS
In the very centre of Christmas cheer, amidst the silver bells, coloured baubles and lights, enormous sparkling chandeliers, banners and wreathes and beside a gigantic Christmas tree, there in the middle of everything stands a huge throne that dominates the centre of the plaza. No, it's not for Jesus. It is for Santa Claus, enthroned as the CHRISTMAS SUBSTITUTE of a naughty and nice world.
The nativity scene is hard to find, tucked away in a glass case around the corner somewhere. At least in Australia we still have them. It's not that we don't want to include Jesus, the Saviour of the world, in the celebrations, it's just that there is no room in the ... well you know what I mean. It seems you still have to search for Jesus, like wise men of old, without the help of the star. So much for Matthew 6:33 (NLT) "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need."
I'm not sure Jesus would go for the big red throne adorned with tinsel and holly anyway. The stable seems to indicate that God is less interested in all the frills and more interested in ruling over the hearts and lives of those willing to love, honour and obey the real King of kings and Lord of lords.
God bless you as you as you abdicate the throne this CHRISTMAS. I object that Santa has become a SUBSTITUTE for Jesus, but on closer inspection behind the beard and the red suit, if you look hard enough you will see me, bowing to culture and the "naughty and nice things" of the world. Sitting on a throne of my own making.
But I choose to abdicate! I choose to take off the mask and look for the manger. Forget the naughty and nice. I just want to be Ho, Ho, Holy! (Sorry, couldn't resist). I choose His righteousness as a SUBSTITUTE for my sinfulness. I realise that all I have to offer Him is more akin to a stable, not a palace, or some fancy throne, yet here in this place, without all the frills of a Christmas substitute, I choose to recognise Jesus as my King.
Now with that established, let's have a lot of fun! Have a happy holiday but most of all a Merry CHRISTmas!
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