How The Grinch Stole Christmas
In this series, we are encouraging you to find Jesus and Truth in some of your favorite Christmas films. Another movie that we check off our Christmas movie playlist is Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. This is another Christmas classic that has been remade several times. The classic cartoon first aired in 1966 and since then it’s been made into a live-action feature-length movie, a computer animated movie, and even a live stage show. In all versions, the classic story is still the same: the Grinch hates Christmas and decides to steal it by going down to Whoville and taking all the presents and Christmas decorations. Once the Grinch succeeds in his plan, he waits to hear the cries from the Whos but is shocked when, instead of crying and complaining about their decorations and gifts being stolen, the Whos gather around the town square and sing a joyful tune.
“Do everything without complaining and arguing…” (Philippians 2:14)
“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:10)
Would you react like the Whos if you woke up Christmas morning to find that your tree and presents had been stolen? Would you be able to sing a joyful song? We know Christmas isn’t about the presents and the decorations and it’s a great reminder in The Grinch as well. The joy of the Whos is infectious and when the Grinch realizes that he hasn’t stolen their joy, his heart grows three sizes! When others see our joy in the Lord, it is infectious. When the world sees how we react to tragedies and disappointments, when we count it all joy, we point to the Giver of joy!
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds…” (James 1:2)
No one can steal our joy because our joy is found in Christ. Keep Christ the center of Christmas and you will be joyful no matter what happens this holiday season!
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
