Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is the story of a man who is forced to take stock of his life. When Ebenezer Scrooge returns home on Christmas Eve, he is visited by the ghost of his business partner Jacob Marley, who had died seven years earlier. He came in chains and warned Scrooge that his chains forged in life were longer and heavier than his.
While we do not believe in many of the aspect of the after life in Dickens’ fictional story, we can appreciate the message – we must will face the consequences of our words and deeds. Galatians 6:7-8 tells us, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. A man reaps what he sows…”
What about us? Have we, like Scrooge, sown seeds that we deeply regret? Have we, too, forged some Christmas chains that keep us from experiencing the true meaning of this season? At this time of year, many are chained by materialism – caught by the allure of wanting and getting more and better things. Others hammer links of bitterness and hurts onto their chain because of old wounds. Others are bound by unrealistic expectations of harmony in the home, experiencing disappointment and anxiety at family gatherings. Many are weighed down by worry and resentment over the financial stress of the season.
How do you break the chains?
1. Receive the forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
Jesus came to offer forgiveness to as many as will receive Him as Savior. He will free you from your chains of sin.
2. Focus on Christ.
Make sure the prominent character in your Christmas celebration is Christ, not Santa or other characters.
3. Build holy chains to bind you to Jesus Christ.
Invest in the poor and needy. Take food to a local food pantry or give Christmas baskets to the hungry. Make a special offering to Missions or donation to our local rescue mission.