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Tinsel and Garland

Isaiah 9:6 – “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.

Tinsel is a “decorative garland material that mimics the effects of ice or icicles.”[1]  It is used during the Christmas season to decorate Christmas trees.  According to Wikipedia, Tinsel was invented around 1610 in Nuremberg, Germany.  It was added to the Christmas tree to enhance the flickering of the candles that were used to light the tree.[2]

Hollywood is often referred to as Tinseltown because of the glamor of the movie industry.  Tinseltown is known for its bright lights and glamorous lifestyles. Our society tends to idolize those the world promotes as beautiful and talented. The Paparazzi obsessively follow them trying to get the perfect picture to sell to magazines and media outlets.

The stark reality is that the tinsel is only outwardly glamorous. This kind of tinsel has very little value. Behind the scenes there is betrayal, broken homes, addiction, confused identities, and unfulfilled expectations. There is an old saying. "All that glitters is not gold."

The Lord Jesus does not offer worthless tinsel. He does not offer bright lights. Most in the body of Christ will never experience fame and fortune. A true servant will spend his/her time and resources to make Him famous.

During this season that celebrates His birth may we realize that Christmas is much more than tinsel and garland. As we gather with family and friends to enjoy this festive time may we rejoice that the Lord offers us more than just outward glamor. He offers us a peace that passes all understanding. In Isaiah 9:6 He is identified as “the Prince of Peace.”  May the Lord Jesus, the Prince of Peace, bestow His peace upon you today.

[1] Retrieved from internet, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinsel, November 30, 2015.
[2] Ibid, November 30, 2015.

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