It’s true that Christmas may not be as festive or lighthearted as past years, but even in the face of the bad news of our world and in our lives, the good news of God should resound in our hearts and minds as we enter the Christmas season: God is with us. I am reminded of the angel’s message to the shepherds:

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.—Luke 2:10–11

Admittedly there’s much sadness in the world right now due to serious problems. People are terrified of contracting a sickness or being hospitalized. Businesses are closing. Church services are limited. People have lost jobs. Suicides are increasing at an alarming rate. Yet, despite these serious problems, we need to remember that Christmas was made for times like these!

Christmas is a reminder that although this world stinks sometimes, we have a hope that will never fade away. The good news of God’s reign exists even in the midst of crisis. If we think about what Christmas really means, it’s not so much about gifts, parties, and laughter—the hope of Christmas is that Jesus came to deliver us from our sin, death, and the grave. The angel informed Joseph:

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins … they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.—Matthew 1:21,23

Because of Bethlehem, Calvary, and the empty tomb there is a new day coming when the dead in Christ shall rise and all things will be made new! Jesus reminded us of that reality when He said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

So, let’s believe what we say we believe and behave like we know what the birth of Christ really means. Let’s invest in our kids, love our families, share the gospel, and make the most of this day that the Lord has made.