The Christmas SpiritDecember 24, 2007
During this period these "transformers" (as they have become known to the scientific community) greet strangers, volunteer to help needy people, and give to charities. Some who are never seen to smile at any other time of the year have been caught with the sides of their mouths upturned. More "random acts of kindness" are reported during this period than at any other time of the year. This phenomenon has been studied by eminent psychologists, sociologists and anthropologists. After years of research, they have concluded that they don't totally understand the phenomenon, but they have agreed upon a name for it: "The Christmas Spirit." The reasoning behind the title is that the aberrant behavior always occurs at the same time of year - the days and weeks preceding Christmas. While the scientists admit that they do not completely understand the causative factors linked to these behaviors, they have detected some of the "triggers" that seem to be precursors of the unusual activity. These include Christmas decorations, special holiday church services, and, most important, Christmas music. Some of the most unpleasant people have been observed with tears in their eyes during the singing of "Silent Night." Of course those who understand the Bible know that what people refer to as "The Christmas Spirit" is nothing more than the way Jesus acted every day when He was on the earth, and the way every Christian is supposed to act every day. You see, the word Christian means "Christ-like." If we are truly followers of Christ, then we should endeavor to act like Him every day of the year. People around us should see no difference in our levels of kindness, selflessness and love whether it is summertime or Christmas time. Which brings us back to the "transformers." If you are normally mean, surly and inconsiderate, don't change for a few days around Christmas. You will only confuse your friends and family. However, if you want to become a different person permanently, read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). There you will learn not only what Jesus was like, but how you can become like Him. You will also learn how you can receive the only Christmas gift worth having - the gift of eternal life (John 3:16).
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