“Merry Christmas” proclaims the joy of Christ’s birth. This is not just a pleasant remembrance or an occasion for the giving of gifts. The birth of Christ literally means healing and hope for our planet, (Psalm 98; Romans 8) and the people that God rescues by his grace. And the Christmas Proclamation, or Merry Christmas, was heralded throughout the universe; it was and is a cosmic event! (Ephesians 3:10)
The birth of Jesus was proclaimed by angels erupting into the night sky above the fields of Bethlehem. The Roman Press was not there to record the spectacular happening. The Emperor’s News Channel was not there to bring live coverage of the most newsworthy event in human history. There were no panels of pundits to speculate on the angels’ message and how Caesar would feel about a new king being born. There were no focus groups to analyze public opinion about whether or not this birth was a good thing.
The angels did not need or care about the approval of people. Nothing could contain their joy. The Messiah was here! God was keeping his promise to redemptive history. Jesus Christ is the light of the world:
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.
This is the greatest proclamation ever made to humans, the Messiah would bring peace to human hearts. This birth means hope and help for sinful, broken, hurting people. The longing creation repeated the joy. The people of earth must hear and heed the angels proclamation if they are to know true peace.
So “Merry Christmas” is not just a holiday greeting; it is the hope of the human race. Proclaim the wonder and joy of the birth of Christ by saying Merry Christmas. As you have the opportunity, proclaim with the angels that people can be whole and complete in the Savior of the world. Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.
Merry Christmas!