MOURNING CHRISTMAS

Today's reading: Esther 1-5

"When Mordecai learned what had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, crying with a loud and bitter wail." Esther 4:1 NLT

Mordecai mourned the political decision pushed into motion by Haman.

It would touch the lives of many. It would effect the people of God. It would harm and it would hinder for generations.

So he cried and wailed and displayed his sadness for all to see.

I thought as I read about Mordecai and his outward expression of deep-seated emotions, I thought of Christmas--and what's been done to it.

Should we as Christians mourn what it's become? Secular, sale-icious, seething with worldliness?

Should we cry out for other believers to return to the roots of this blessed holy season? The focus on the Messiah arriving, the Lamb born in the stable, the King lying lowly in a manger?

Should we be in tears over what we've rushed past, who we've rushed by, how we've rushed over what's the true meaning of Christmas? Jesus. Salvation. God with us.

As wonderful a season it is, it's lacking in its originally designed splendor...and that, Christian friends is something to mourn.