These Sparkly Holidays

Well Christmas is almost here...and I can't believe it! Wow, all the lights....and here in MN, the cold! Brrrrrrr....and the decorations! The sparkly decorations. Yup, my husband and I just put up a tree and decorations.




I know that to some people it feels uncomfortable to put up a tree and decorations...because what does it all have to do with Jesus? I can understand. It's really OK. But then to others, it is delightful and gives them an opportunity to share in the festivities with so many family, friends and neighbors who also participate in the holidays in this way, and therefore finding common ground with them and being a witness. In fact, to some it is an opportune time for this.


Also, it has to do with grace. Because of grace we are set free to celebrate some holidays and not others if we want. Because of the power of the cross we have been given the freedom to put up a tree or not...it is between you and your Father and love. In the times of the law, the law told you what to do or not to do...practically every step. If you wanted to know how to act in any given situation, the law would probably have the answer for you. However now, God wants the command to love to be your guide, not a list of rules.



Think about it. There were over 600 laws. Wow! But now, Christ made ALL the difference. The work He did on the cross was complete...no holes or things left out. God didn't forget anything. His work is pristine...and continues to be so. It is us that add to it (I know I've done my share and then some), as though it was not complete. We add rules and attachments because we are much more comfortable with rules than love! Yikes!! However, now there is only one law...only one to truly consider when doing anything.
 
Matthew 7:12
Everything whatsoever you desire that people should do for you, do likewise for them, for this is the Law and The Prophets.
 
Colossians 2:16
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.


ALSO --


In the Barnes Commentary -
Let no man, therefore, judge you - comparing with  Romans 14:10. The word judge here is used in the sense of pronouncing a sentence. The meaning is, "since you have thus been delivered by Christ from the evils which surrounded you: since you have been freed from the observances of the law, let no one sit in judgment on you, or claim the right to decide for you in those matters. You are not responsible to man for your conduct, but to Christ; and no man has a right to impose that on you as a burden from which he has made you free."


Blessings everyone!!!