Christmas is such a special time! The snow, the lights, the songs, and the smell of cookies and pine trees make this season feel magical. But Christmas is not just about fun; it is also a time to think about what really happened long ago and why it still matters today.
Before we talk about the most important part of Christmas, here are some fun Christmas facts you might not know!
Did You Know “Jingle Bells” Wasn’t About Christmas?
That catchy song we hear every December was first written for Thanksgiving! A man named James Lord Pierpont wrote it in the 1800s and called it “One Horse Open Sleigh.” Later, it became known as “Jingle Bells” and turned into one of the most popular Christmas songs ever.
Where Did Christmas Trees Come From?
More than 170 years ago, Prince Albert from Germany gave a Christmas tree to his wife, Queen Victoria of England. Everyone loved how it looked, and soon families all over the world began putting up their own trees each year.
Was Jesus Really Born on December 25th?
The Bible does not tell us the exact day when Jesus was born. Some people think it may have been in the spring, but December 25th is the day we celebrate His birth. Would you want to move Christmas to April? Most people like it right where it is!
Now here is a Christmas fact that is more amazing than all the rest: The very first Christmas gift ever given was from God Himself!
The Greatest Gift of All
The greatest gift ever given was Jesus Christ, God’s Son. He was born to bring salvation to anyone who will receive Him.
Today, we give gifts to one another at Christmas, but the best gift comes from God. The Bible tells us why we need that gift.
Why We Need This Gift
The Bible says that every person has sinned: we have all done wrong things. Because of sin, we are separated from God and deserve to be punished.
“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one... For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:10, 23).
“For the wages of sin is death;” (Romans 6:23a).
But God loved us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to take our punishment and make a way for us to live with Him forever.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).
What Kind of Gift Is It?
When someone gives you a gift, you do not have to pay for it; it is free! God’s gift is like that. He GAVE His Son to die on the Cross for our sins. This gift cannot wear out, break, or be taken away. It is eternal life!
“The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23b).
We do not have to earn it or be “good enough.”
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
How to Receive This Gift
When someone gives you a present, you have to accept it. You can’t enjoy a gift you refuse to open! Sadly, many people say “no” to God’s free gift. But if you believe on Jesus and ask Him to save you, you can have everlasting life in Heaven.
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10).
You can talk to God right now. Tell Him you know you have sinned and need His forgiveness. Tell Him you believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose again. Ask Him to be your Saviour.
The Best Christmas Ever
If you have just accepted Jesus as your Saviour, this Christmas will be the most special one of your life! You are now part of God’s family.
We would love to rejoice with you and help you grow in your new relationship with Christ.
