But for myself, there is one that rises above the rest. This one would not seem, on the surface, to even be mentioned along with those of the caliber of ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’, ‘White Christmas’ or ‘Miracle on 34th Street.’ These are all wonderful stories in their own right. That said, they are lacking in something crucial that has been conveyed in a simple and low budget cartoon produced by Charles M. Schulz. It aired for the first time on prime time back in 1965 - some 47 years ago.
What is it that has made “A Charlie Brown Christmas” a classic among classics and worthy of being placed along side the likes of the great seasonal shows? The answer to that is simple. It is the very short segment of the show where a young Linus answers a highly frustrated Charlie who has just blurted out; “Doesn’t anyone know what Christmas is all about?” As most know, Linus, with his famous blanket in tow, slowly wonders to middle of the stage. He pauses there, gently calls for single spotlight and proceeds with his brief discourse using only the words of Luke chapter two.
“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were so afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.'" (Luke 2:8-14)
He concludes his now famed Scriptural statement by uttering, ”That's what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown."
What is your Christmas really all about this year? If these words found in Luke's gospel are not the central focus, then it will be an incomplete celebration at best. If they are, then you are with those who alone can fully experience this so-called “Most wonderful time of the Year” You are among the blessed who realize that the child born in Bethlehem came primarily as the Savior destined for the cross!
Another gospel account further declares how both of these miraculous events work together as one.
“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21-24)
We trust that the second part of this great verse describes you this Christmas season and that you are a part of God's family of faith. If not, trust today the God-man and Savior - Jesus Christ. For you, He began His earthly life in that lowly manger so long ago. And for you, He voluntarily ended that earthly life on the cross to redeem you from the power and penalty of sin. In doing so you will be able to, for the very first time, fully know and totally enjoy ‘what Christmas is all about’.
Bill Breckenridge
