I used to think only nerds got goosebumps during Star Wars, but even this scene from the recent Episode VII got me:

One idea unites every character in these movies – hope. The belief that there is Something More. Something with the power to make everything right again. They’re just like you and me.

It’s our shared thirst for hope (not an affinity for Star Wars geekdom) that makes everyone lean in and listen to Han Solo. Deep down – some deeper than others – we believe that hope exists. No matter how badly we want to give it up, there’s a gnatty little question that won’t leave us alone:

What if all this…
a created universe – a loving God who rules over it – a Savior – an empty tomb…what if it were all actually true?

Unlike Han Solo, the Apostle John was a real person and lived on the Earth, but (just like Han Solo) he saw and experienced Something that gave others hope.

John 1:14
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Underneath the presents and lights and family feasts, there waits Something More. A non-religious person might describe it as “the spirit of Christmas” but they are only seeing It in part. The Spirit of Christmas dwelt among us and has a name.

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees
O hear the angel voices
O night divine!
O night when Christ was born

“O Holy Night”

So, lean in and listen as John tells us, “all of it…the whole thing…it’s true.”