Savior or Santa?

The picture for this month’s blog is of two magazines I found next to each other the other day while waiting in line at Target. For those who celebrate it, this is Christmas in a nutshell. It’s either Jesus or St. Nicholas. The Savior or Santa. The King of Kings or the King of Christmas.

Both are actual, historical figures who left an impact on the world in which they lived. Santa, for those who don’t know, was actually Nicholas of Myra, an early church bishop. Some records indicate that he may have been at the Council of Nicea (325 A.D.) and, in some accounts, may have actually “punched out” one of the attendees for propagating the heretical teaching that Jesus was not God. If nothing else, it appears that the man who would become known as Santa Clause was a defender of the faith and had a mean right hook!

And Jesus?

Jesus is the REASON for the season, without doubt. Without Him, there is no Christmas. But He is much more than a historical figure. Jesus came into this world with ONE purpose and that was to present Himself as our substitute on a cross that was meant for us. He came so that we might have our sins forgiven and taken away, and reunite us and restore our relationship with God the Father. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23 ESV) The true gift of Christmas is a restored relationship with God!

Jesus one time asked His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” It is a question we must answer for ourselves. Who do WE say Jesus is? Our answer will determine not just our present, but our eternity. Is Jesus merely a historical figure, a good teacher, some nice guy who lived long ago in a far away place…or is He your Savior, through Whom you have received the best Christmas gift of all?