I know people complain because they think we've lost the true meaning of Christmas, but why are they so concerned? After all, isn't Christmas supposed to be a time for family and happiness and giving, and things like that? — D.F.

Yes, Christmas is a time for all these things, and we should thank God for them. The Bible reminds us that "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights" (James 1:17).

But the true meaning of Christmas is far deeper than any of these things—and this is what we often forget. What is Christmas? The answer is simple: It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ over 2,000 years ago. At Christmas we remember the timeless story of Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem—and because they were poor, and the town was filled with visitors, Mary's son had to be born in a stable.

But why was Jesus' birth so important? The reason is because He was more than just another baby. He was God in human flesh! We can barely understand such a profound truth—but on that night in Bethlehem God took upon Himself human flesh and became a man. The Bible says, "The Word was God ... (and) the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:1, 14).

Why did God do this? Why did He stoop down and live among the sins and heartaches of this world? For one reason: so we could have our sins forgiven and go to be with Him in heaven forever. As you celebrate Christmas this year, stop to thank God for God's greatest gift—the gift of His Son—and then reach out and by faith receive the gift of Christ into your heart today.