I am writing today from the city of Xi’an, one of the oldest cities in China. All around me in this Communist state are signs of the celebration of Christmas. In the Jinshi International Hotel is a beautiful Christmas tree two stories high. In the gift shop jade crosses are being sold. In the lobby a talented musician plays Christmas carols including Silent Night for the pleasure of the guests dining. Above the front desk are bold red letters that read:

"M E R R Y   C H R I S T M A S"

It is an amazing turn of events from former days. But what does it mean?

First, it means there is a new level of religious freedom in China. Christian churches openly hold worship services. Some of the Protestant churches are quite large numbering over a thousand attendees on Sunday mornings. China is not a religious nation per se, but while the Communist government does not advocate religious worship, it does allow religious tolerance expressed in Christianity, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.

Second, the celebration of Christmas means that prophetic principles are being fulfilled. In the book of the Revelation two entities are presented as persecuting the saints. Nevertheless, the church triumphs over these two entities. An eternal principle is established. Any political system that tries to destroy the church, any religious organization that moves against the church shall fail. The kingdom of God will always in time emerge victorious over all other forces. Our God reigns.

Third, the celebration of Christmas in China means that a new generation will be given the opportunity to hear the gospel. Though millions die in superstitious unbelief multitudes will yet hear about the Lamb of God slain before the foundation of the world. Many children in China are being taught of the Christ child, born in a manger, honored by the magi, worshipped by the shepherds and beloved by countless. Let the world rejoice. There is Christmas in China.