"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 sore 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." (Luke 2:8-11)
For many in America, these words are at least somewhat familiar. But for a growing segment, this knowledge does not come from the original source of New Testament Scripture. Instead, it originates from, of all places, a musical cartoon special based on the comic strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz. A Charlie Brown Christmas made its debut in 1965 and has been a seasonal favorite for almost a half century with young and old alike.
But near the program's conclusion, little Linus slowly makes his way to center stage, calls for a spot light, and quotes the above passage verbatim. He then concludes by turning to his distraught friend and uttering his now famous line, "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." And indeed it is!
With all of the wonderful Christmas movies and specials each year, this short cartoon was pure genius in its simplicity and has reminded viewers about the supreme reason for the season: Christ came to die for sinners. It helped share what one seasonal song spoke of in its perceptive title, A Cradle in the Shadow of a Cross.
Linus' flawless recital of the true meaning of Christmas concluded with Luke 2:14. "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"
We trust you are today glorifying God and fully at peace with the One who came via that lowly manger en route to that rugged cross in order to offer Himself as the supreme sacrifice for you and for me!
Have a merry and very blessed Christmas!
Bill Breckenridge
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