By Pastor/Teacher James R. Paxton
I pray and trust that this season means more to you than a day off or possibly the hope of the beauty of a white Christmas. All the lights and other decorations surely add to the festive season we are in.
Christmas certainly has its enemies. Jealous religions oppose decorations, the Nativity scene and even the poinsettia plant. Even the commercialism of the season can be a huge distraction of what Christmas really means.
We celebrate Christmas as the birth date of Jesus, the Son of God who came to earth to save mankind from his sin. We don’t know if December 25 was the actual date of His birth or not but that is not what is really important. The fact that He came is what matters.
Christmas is a time of giving and receiving. We give gifts and that is great. The sparkle in the eye of a child or the joy of their laughter is wonderful. Just don’t forget that God is the original giver of gifts. He gave His only begotten Son to set an example for us and then to die in our place for our sins. God gave His Son. Jesus gave His life and it is our privilege to receive that Gift.
I hope that the joy of the season fills your heart, your home and your family.
Every one of us should be stirred with a thankful heart and blessed hope. If you just pause and thank God for His goodness, His love and His mercy it will stir your heart to a joyous day. Share your joy with someone else.
Families coming together, a bowl full of cookies and the glitter of a Christmas tree (especially if there is a gift under the tree with your name on it) sure causes the room to be filled with a festive atmosphere.
Stop and reminisce on God’s goodness to you. Thank God for your family, your health, His provision for you and for your friends. I hope you find yourself in church lifting your voice in praise to God. Thank God for the country in which you live. It’s not perfect but it’s the best one on earth. Thank God for your liberty and freedom and if you have not received Jesus Christ as you Lord and Savior then ask Him into your heart and if you are serious He will come and when He comes He will wash away all your sin and receive you as a child of God.
Put a smile on your face and do your very best to put a smile on someone else’s face and help their heart to be filled with happiness.
Maranatha!