So how did we get here? How did this 'Holy' Day become so secularized that it is hard to reconcile what was first begun with what has become? Well, good often is the enemy of the best, and during Christmas a lot of good things, even great things, have a way of taking over our minds and our energies.
But, I am not writing to be ‘Grinch’ this Christmas, so, as a postive, let me suggest 3 steps that will help us keep Christ in Christmas this year and beyond.
1. By remembering - Take time this Christmas to read the real story. The coming of Christ, the Nativity Story, is recorded in 2 gospels, Matthew and Luke, chapters 1-2. Gather yourself, friends and family and take time to read this amazing story together.
2. By worshipping Christ on Christmas Eve, Day, or both. Find a church near you or, join me and many others at TheChurch@Junius Heights for one of our 2 services, either 6:00 or 11:00 pm on Christmas Eve.
3. By giving - to others. God gave the first Christmas gift - the gift of Christ - and none compares with this, however, a life of giving is our way of living out our thankfulness to God for all He has done for us. In both the Old and New Testaments giving to others was commended as a life honoring of God. Putting others first and by example teaching our families to do the same, creates a Christmas that remains far beyond the empty packages and trash we haul outside after indulging only ourselves.
Of course, we know that truly putting Christ in our Christmas is foremost accomplished as we make Him our Savior and LORD, but - in a world filled with so many 'other' messages during this season - taking time for these 3 can make a difference that will help.
So, if in town this Sunday and on Christmas Eve, I hope to see you and your family as we gather to worship and share with the Junius Heights community a “live nativity” scene - doing what what God has called us to, as together we enjoy a...
Merry Christmas, indeed,
Pastor Sam
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