What does FELIZ NAVIDAD or MERRY CHRISTMAS mean?
"Feliz Navidad" is a bilingual song by José Feliciano, released in 1970, and is one of the most downloaded and aired Christmas songs in the USA, awarded by ASCAP as one of the top 25 Christmas songs most played and recorded around the world, but is "Feliz Navidad" just a happy song or a happy time? What are we saying when we say to our friends and family, "Feliz Navidad?"
As we learned yesterday, Christmas is supposed to be about Jesus. Someone said once, "Jesus is the reason for the season." The word "Nativity" or "Navidad" refers to the birth of Jesus. Celebrating the Nativity of Jesus is celebrating the Son of God that was given to us for salvation. The Bible says, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, so that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
God gave His son, His only son. The Son of God was born in a manger, but grew in wisdom, in stature, and in favor before God and man. He walked among us and preached the Gospel of salvation and was killed because of it. The cruel death of Christ at the cross had a reason: It was the only way that God's wrath for sin would be satisfied. Christ is the Lamb of God that would pay the death penalty for sin. Christ rose on the third day, and with His resurrection He proves that God's wrath was satisfied, and now He reigns and will come for a second time in power and glory.
Traditionally during Christmas time, we think of Jesus as a baby born in a manger. This is historically and biblically true, however, if we want to celebrate Christmas, we have to see Jesus as the Son of God and as God Himself that intently came to the world to live, to die, and to save those that believe in His Gospel.
So, the next time we think of the word "Navidad," don't just focus on the physical and emotional cuteness of a baby, but meditate on a fully grown man, the Son of God who was tempted, but without sin, and who left His throne in Heaven to give His life for you!
Get the picture? The Bible is not interested in teaching us what the best food or drink for the party is, but only in teaching the meaning of the work of Christ for us. Have fun, but don't get distracted with the unimportant happiness of Christmas parties. The pagans have been partying during the Winter solstice for thousands of years, but those that understand and read God's Word will know that the meaning of Christmas is much deeper than a family reunion or feast.
Make a difference this year. Have a more MEANINGFUL Navidad/Christmas than last year.
Take time with your family to thank God in prayer for sending His Son. Our deepest words of gratitude will not be enough to thank Him for what He did, but give it your best shot. Don't just think of a cute baby in a manger, but think of Him as Lord, King of Kings, and the Savior who gave His life for you and me!
I wish you a Meaningful Navidad.
-Manny Diaz
Further reading:
Romans 5:8 "but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."