Christmas means many things to many different people but to most people it is a magical season. Below, is a part of that magic that is unique, special, and exhilarating.

THE MAGIC OF ADVENT

One of the magical aspects of Christmas is the advent or the coming. In the protestant churches advent is observed as the period that begins the 4tth Sunday before Christmas and many celebrate the advent seasons by having advent service on those Wednesdays during advent season. This is a time of reflection on the true meaning of the season and is also a time of eager anticipation.

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC.

Christmas music is timeless and clearly is a big part of the celebration and spirituality of the holiday season. From Joy to the World, to Silent Night to Oh Holy Night there are an unbelievable number of beautiful songs. Some of the greatest music is the classical music such as Handel’s Messiah and the soaring Hallelujah Chorus. John Sebastian Bach said that the purpose of music was to honor and worship God. Surely this is the case for most Christmas music. But, some may even have time for “Grandma got run over by a Reindeer.”

THE MAGIC OF SHARING AND GIVING

One of the more intriguing Christmas stories is the tale of Scrooge. Scrooge was a heartless and unhappy miser who reaches discovery and becomes more human through giving to those less fortunate. From Secret Santa to Angle tree, to the Salvation Army a central theme of Christmas over the years is a special effort to give to those that are in need of help. There is also an emphasis to make sure as many children as possible have some Christmas gifts.

THE MAGIC OF JESUS CHRIST

But the most magical part of the season of all is the birth of Jesus Christ. The most sacred and most celebrated time of the year that serves as a cornerstone for the faith. The birth of Christ conveys hope, life, faith, redemption and salvation. But it also serves as a beacon for those who may or will come to belief later in their lives.

Merry Christmas to Barry and all the Aldersonians out there wherever life has taken you. May you and yours enjoy the magic of the Christmas spirit.