It is that time of year when the schedule gets overcrowded with parties and events, and the budget gets pressed to the limit, but do not miss the wonderful message of the season.

Our current culture does not like offending anyone and so it seems like Christmas has become watered-down to a "Happy Holiday," or a "Seasons Greetings." To me, these watered-down slogans beg the question, why? Why is everyone so happy, and what "holy day" are we celebrating? And, why is everyone sending greetings on one of the coldest darkest days of the year?

The answer, of course, as many of you know, is around 2,000 years ago God became flesh and dwelt among us. He loved us so much he gave his one and only son Jesus Christ to walk among us and reveal to us what the invisible creator of all things was like. This baby born in an obscure town of the first century was the Almighty who humbled himself to walk a path that was set for him since ages past. This path would lead to His suffering on a cross and the amazing glory of His resurrection.

This is the message of Christmas, the holy day, when the Light came into a dark and fallen world: His future ultimate act of love would bring us hope of a relationship restored with our Creator.

If you celebrate Christmas, do not fall for just a shallow watereddown day, but with thanksgiving enjoy the reality of Emmanuel, God with us, and remember His message to you.

Have a blessed time with family and friends as we remember the greatest gift that was, and will ever be given. Have a Merry Christmas!

-- Mark Christensen is a state senator representing the 44th district.