Communicating the right message is so important. Connecting with the audience in a way that is understandable is a necessity. Unfortunately, the message is sometimes blocked by misunderstanding which leads to communication confusion.
Communication confusion happened to me this past week. On several occasions I passed by our local burger franchise. Their billboard advertised a new BOGO burger for $.55. What is a Bogo burger? The thought continued to intrigue me. Was it a Southwestern flavor burger or maybe an Italian flavor? I couldn’t decide. Finally I mentioned this great deal to my husband, who gladly agreed we should go. As we entered the parking lot, my husband casually commented, “Oh, that means buy one get one for $.55. Huh??? Unfortunately the message the burger franchise was sending was totally lost on me. They had not communicated the right message, at least to me. This was pure and simple communication confusion!
In the last few years I’ve noticed the message of Christmas is resulting in communication confusion. Think about it. Going to the mall seems to send the message that Christmas is a major shopping holiday with great deals for the early bird. The resulting shopping frenzy lends credence to the claim. Tired cashiers, harried parents, and mall congestion send a message of irritability and frustration. Where’s the Christmas spirit in this?
The message of Christ is seemingly lost amidst the hustle and bustle of shopping, decorating, and baking. By the time Christmas Day finally arrives, most are exhausted, in debt, and depressed. That’s not the right message of Christmas!!!
The message communicated to a lost world is not of Christ. Instead the message is about our giving and getting gifts, good food, and fun. These are not bad things, but a lost world is probably wondering what has gotten into Christians who look and act just like the worldly. I’d say this is a great example of Christmas Communication Confusion. We’re not sending the right message.
Christmas is the joyous celebration of the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, Savior of the world. Think of it! God has come down in the flesh to redeem lost mankind from the bonds of Satan. Christmas brings a message of hope and joy! Jesus’ mission was to come and to die so mankind could be saved from the penalty of sin. That mission was finally fulfilled when He rose from the dead on that Easter Sunday morning. Death and Satan were conquered. Consequently, Believers can enjoy a personal relationship with Jesus, receive forgiveness of sin, and the hope of a place in Heaven for all eternity. That’s cause for celebration!
Let’s put Christmas in perspective. It’s about Jesus. Let Him be the center of your Christmas. Let’s communicate the real message of Christmas.
“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Luke 2:14
Copyright © Linda Hull 2012, Follow Linda at Words of Encouragement
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