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We all wonder what Christmas is all about. Is it possible we can find the answer in a cartoon?
People say Christmas is about good will. A time to think about the important things in life more than we normally do. An occasion when we sing with others, perhaps out of tune, but sincerely and joyfully. And a season where we strive to act a little more like we wish we acted all of the time.
Many also say that Christmas is about Jesus. Somehow, it seems that almost everyone loves Jesus this time of year.
Christmas is about a lot of good things. But it is also about the baggage we bring with us into the holiday season. The fears and insecurities we carry the rest of the year may weigh even heavier on us during what is supposed to be such a festive time.
Just as they do with Charlie Brown.
We Are All Charlie Brown
In “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Charles Schultz, things don’t go well for the young hero, leading him to the conclusion that, “Everything I do turns into a disaster!”
And he wonders, as do we sometimes, “I think there must be something wrong with me.” “I know nobody likes me,” he mutters. And the Lucys and Peppermint Pattis of our world seem to be telling us, at least in our insecure minds, that we are “stupid” and “hopeless” as well.
And our Christmas tree is not nearly as big or shiny as everyone else’s Christmas tree.
We desperately search for the meaning of the season. We are all Charlie Brown. So, we cry out, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”
What Christmas is All About
Linus provides the answer. Yes, Linus, the one with the security blanket that never leaves his hand. Ever. Except this time, because right in the middle of speaking, Linus drops the blanket.
He marches to center stage and tells the story of what Christmas is all about:
“And the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not …, [and Linus lets go his blanket] … for behold, I bring you tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you.’”
A gentle story, softly told. Yes, about a baby. But a baby the angels proclaim. One who brings joy to all people. A Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
At times, we are all Charlie Brown, living in fear of disasters, real or imagined. But we are also Linus. We may sometimes need a blanket to lessen our insecurities. But, if we listen, we can hear the holy command to, “Fear not!” And, at least for a while, we can let go of our blanket as well.
Because we are designed for more than that. And we have a God who is more powerful than that, one who cared so much for us that he sent his Son to earth to show us his love.
“That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”
Question: What fears and insecurities do you bring into this Christmas season?
Action: Read the Christmas story in the Bible and choose to let go of your blanket.
