It’s Christmas time once again, the perfect time to remind ourselves and others of the true meaning of Christmas. Put aside the shopping and parties, the boxes and bags, the gifts and the bows, and remember that God himself came into this world to save all those who would believe. And His name was Jesus, meaning Savior, because He would save the world from sin.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I could not think of a better “true meaning of Christmas” speech than that delivered by Linus of Charlie Brown fame. So, I hope you enjoy this video clip from A Charlie Brown Christmas as you celebrate this year. We at Bible or Not would like to wish our readers and the world a blessed and happy Christmas.

Linus Speech on The True Meaning of Christmas

Charlie Brown: Isn’t there anyone, who knows what Christmas is all about?!

Linus: Sure Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about. Lights please?

And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them! And they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, “Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings o great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men.

That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

The True Meaning of Christmas from the Bible

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. – Luke 2:4-14 KJV

Special thanks to Charles Schulz and the whole Peanuts gang for having the courage to put the true meaning of Christmas in their animated film. It has become a true Christmas classic.

I remember as a kid putting together my Christmas list every year, just like many kids do. At that age it was all about me. As I got to be an older kid I started making two lists; one for me, and one for those in my family. But still being a kid, I had very little money to buy presents with, which was disappointing to me.

It is not the gift, but the thought that counts. – Bible or Not?

I recall being taught by my mother at this young age that it wasn’t the size or cost of the gift, but it was the thought behind it that counted. What a relief! I figured as long as I did my very best, to either make or buy the best I could, then it would be a good gift. And as parents, don’t we treasure those gifts we receive from our children? Whether it’s a hand-made card, or a chochkee from the dollar store, or the promise of helping around the house or spending time together, it’s all good. We see the intent, and the effort, and we are blessed.

Well, it’s the same with God. We are His children, and could never repay Him for the gifts He has given us. But we can still give Him whatever gifts we have, and when we give of the best that we are able to, He is blessed and smiles upon us. This Christmas week let’s remember the ultimate gift that we celebrate – Christmas day commemorates the gift of Jesus Christ coming into this world to save the world.

So as we prepare for and celebrate Christmas, as we are giving and receiving gifts, let’s not forget the first and ultimate Gift Giver. For each gift that we give let’s give it in the true spirit of Christmas, and for each gift that we may receive let’s receive it with humility and thanksgiving. And remember, it’s not the gift, but the thought that counts. What’s your opinion, we’d like to know (leave a comment).

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. Ephesians 4:7-8 KJV

I almost forgot: is this quote in the Bible or Not? The origin of , “It is not the gift, but the thought that counts”, comes from Henry van Dyke (1852 – 1933), an American author, poet and theologian. Van Dyke was a professor of literature at Princeton University and was given prestigious positions and honor during his life. You can read more about Henry van Dyke here.

Jesus is the Reason

Top 10 Christmas Quotes

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! And before we move onto New Years, let’s stay with the season.

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.