HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS: The Bakery Encounter That Changed Everything
Singing “Happy Birthday, Jesus” is an annual family tradition.
"Well, Jesus is the reason for the season," I'd say, as if I needed an excuse to set up the nativity scene or raise my voice over sleepy heads who groaned at the mention of church.
But when I opened the door to another pile of Christmas packages on my porch one December, I began to wonder, "Is Jesus REALLY the reason for MY season?"
How can God's light shine when we're surrounded by the world's shiny things?
How can Christ be first when the line wraps around the mall to see Santa?
I really didn’t know the answer.
So, I tried jingling a bell here, joining in a little fa-la-la there, hoping to keep Christ in Christmas without making anyone uncomfortable.
But there comes a time when the hope of God's glory within us can no longer be contained.
That's what happened to me at the grocery store bakery one Christmas Eve.
"I'm here to pick up a birthday cake." I try not to take up too much space at the crowded counter where boxes are stacked two high.
The clerk peers into each box. Behind me, impatient customers clear throats and tap feet. The line grows and pressure builds as we all wait.
I pull my turtleneck away from my neck and fan myself. "Woo! It's hot in here!" I smile at the lady behind me.
She glares back, unamused.
"Hmm. Don't see it. What's the name?" The clerk looks up as the conversation stops around me.
The other shoppers lean in to hear.
My heart is racing, but courage urges me on. This is my moment to speak truth.
The angel said, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10).
Like the angels on that first Christmas, we're called to bring the light, too.
We have the answer the world's been waiting for.
"Jesus," I say.
His Name explodes in the air and hangs in the silence for everyone to consider, so I repeat it.
A little louder.
"JESUS!”
There are a few chuckles. The clerk looks confused, but I don't apologize.
The moment Jesus's Name left my lips, something shifted completely. I wasn't merely ordering a cake—I was declaring truth, spreading joy, and speaking life.
When we reveal Jesus as the reason for the season, we shine light into the darkness, the Light that can't be extinguished.
"Yes! Happy Birthday, Jesus!"
I take the cake and walk through the crowd unashamed.
The hope of God's glory lies within us. We were born to shine.
Jesus IS the reason for the season!
So light the candles and sing for joy.
When we sing "Happy Birthday, dear Jesus," we aren't just starting another tradition, we're fanning the flame of faith for generations to come.
We don't need an excuse to celebrate Jesus this Christmas.
Behold, we bring good news of great joy.