Why Jesus and Why Christmas?

Teachable Woman PodcastReverends Michele Owes & Diana P. Cherry Episode Title: Why Jesus and Why Christmas?IntroductionIn this heartfelt and timely episode of the Teachable Woman Podcast, Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry invite listeners to pause amid the busyness of the Christmas season and return to the true reason we celebrate. With wisdom, biblical truth, and personal reflection, they explore why Jesus came, why Christmas matters, and how a holy moment was gradually reduced to packages, pressure, and performance. This teaching calls believers to refocus their hearts on Christ—the greatest gift ever given—and to reclaim Christmas as a season of gratitude, purpose, and spiritual restoration.Show Note 1: Why Christmas Begins With the Need for a SaviorThe conversation opens with a foundational question: Why Christmas? Reverend Cherry traces the answer back to the fall of mankind. Because sin separated humanity from God, a Redeemer was required. Jesus came as both fully God and fully man to become the propitiation for sin. Christmas celebrates not just a birth, but God’s divine response to humanity’s deepest need—restoration.Show Note 2: Unto Us a Child Is Born – The Promise FulfilledDrawing from Isaiah 9:6, the hosts emphasize that Jesus’ birth fulfilled prophecy and ushered in an eternal kingdom. Christmas is the celebration of God’s promise kept. Though the exact date is not the focus, setting aside time to honor Christ publicly matters. Jesus did not remain in the manger or on the cross—He is a risen Savior, reigning with authority.Show Note 3: Jesus Came for the Whole WorldReverend Michele Owes highlights that Jesus is the Savior of all nations. He is one blood for all people, a perfect genetic blend of humanity. No race, culture, or nation is excluded. Christ came to save mankind from our sins, not His own, demonstrating the depth of God’s love and the importance of cultivating a real relationship with Him.Show Note 4: Destroying the Works of the Devil and Restoring RelationshipJesus’ mission included destroying the works of the devil and restoring humanity to right relationship with God. Sin separates, and unchecked choices can slowly draw believers away from God and His church. The hosts caution listeners to guard their spiritual lives, remain prayerful, and intercede—not only for their nation but for their own hearts and families.Show Note 5: How Christmas Became Diluted—and How to Reclaim ItThe episode challenges how a divine act was reduced to materialism, excess, and even a figure in a red suit. Reverend Cherry shares her personal decision to scale back extravagant gift-giving and instead center Christmas on gratitude, family fellowship, and honoring Jesus’ birthday. The reminder is sobering: Jesus is celebrated worldwide, yet often left out of His own celebration.Show Note 6: Teaching Children Purpose Over PossessionsThe hosts encourage giving with intention—supporting children’s God-given gifts, talents, and purposes rather than feeding endless wants. They warn against overuse of electronics, which can fracture family connection, and emphasize the value of communication, presence, and shared moments. Christmas is an opportunity to teach children why Jesus came and who He is.Show Note 7: The Greatest Gifts Are SpiritualTrue abundance is not found in things, but in the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. Words of encouragement, acts of kindness, prayer, and shared faith are lasting gifts. Whether through reading the Christmas story, sharing communion, or simply acknowledging Christ before opening presents, these moments leave eternal deposits in the lives of others.SummaryIn Why Jesus and Why Christmas? Reverends Michele Owes and Diana P. Cherry lovingly call listeners back to the heart of the season. Christmas is not about excess—it is about Christ. It is the celebration of God sending a Savior, restoring humanity, and offering life more abundantly. As families gather, listeners are encouraged to invite Jesus into His own celebration, demonstrate His love, and remember that the greatest gift has already been given. May this season be Christ-filled, peaceful, joyful, and grounded in gratitude for our risen Savior.