Holiday Devotions for the Distracted HeartSample

Distraction of Dickens

“A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens is a holiday movie I can watch again and again. 

Whether it is the “Scrooge” musical, the Muppet version, the Disney rendition, the original 1938 film, or one of the many contemporary re-makes, there are nostalgic traditions woven into each one. This story has been recreated using different settings, time eras, and even unique casting choices from Mickey Mouse to Bill Murray. 

My favorite versions are set in the nostalgic Victorian period with exquisite costuming, picturesque winter scenes, and a bit of music. Dickens has carefully crafted each character with timeless qualities and unique influences on the story’s overall message of hope. Tiny Tim’s simple faith was instrumental in transforming the miserly and bitter Ebenezer Scrooge. My eyes well up with tears when Scrooge walks into the home of the Cratchit family bearing gifts, changing their lives forever because of his own conversion.  

I am aware this story is not directly connected to the biblical story of Christmas. However, I believe part of the popularity of the Dickens tale is its promise of hope wrapped in a message of redemption. Ebenezer Scrooge’s life was changed on Christmas Eve by the visit of three fictitious spirits who revealed to him the devastating consequences of his own selfish decisions.  

God offers us an even better transformation when He sent Christ as a baby to bring hope to a hurting world and new life to all. God created each part of this redemption story with timeless qualities and unique influences. From the prophecies of the Old Testament to Christ’s birth, He used shepherds, wise men, and even angels to fulfill His message of redemption.

This is what we celebrate on Christmas, the promise of new life given through the gift of a Savior. 

Dickens’ story fleshes out the change that is possible when one is filled with a love for mankind, yet it is empty because it is void of God. The true Christmas story is about the Savior born in Bethlehem who transforms the world with a love from God that is an everlasting transformation. 

The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12

Prayer:

Dear Lord, 

Your Christmas story has the glory of the angels, the humbleness of the stable, and the innocence of the baby Jesus. Yet, it means nothing without your sacrifice on the cross. Thank you for the redemption and love you offer me every day, not just at Christmas. 

Amen  

Discussion or Journal Prompt:

What are some of your favorite Christmas movies that retell the Christmas story and ignite God’s eternal message of hope?