Too Early for Christmas?

“It’s too early for Christmas” I said as my wife and I walked through the department store in mid-September.  Yes, more than three months before Christmas does seem like it is way too early to begin displaying Christmas trees, ornaments, decorations and gifts.  And yet, that is exactly what is happening.  Retailers are stretching the season in order to bring more money into their coffers.  However, the more I thought about my original comment – about Christmas being too early – the more I am convinced that it is never too early for Christmas.  It may be too early  when thinking about retailing, but it is never too early for Christmas when thinking in terms of Christ.  The coming of Jesus into the world was not an event just for us to celebrate one time during the  year.  It is appropriate to celebrate His birth any time.  Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).  The angel of the Lord told Joseph, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).  Salvation and abundant life are for you and me – for everyone –  and these are not restricted to December or the Christmas season.  In this sense Christmas is for any time -- all the time.  The Scripture says, “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation” (II Corinthians 6:2).  You and I need to live like it’s Christmas every day of the year.