Merry Christmas! How gracious God has been to allow us to see yet another Christmas which we can celebrate the arisen King of the entire world. As we go about our day celebrating I’d like to challenge us to focus on a few things, with the hope that it will ensure we all approach our day in a way that is juxtapose to the world’s celebration. Let us keep focused on the mission, which is the cause of Christ!
## Christ Centered
It’s easy to get caught up in the worldly celebrations and traditions that are pressed upon us all in our current culture. Let us be discerning and careful to ensure that Christ doesn’t simply become the cherry on top of Christmas but rather the entire reason for our celebration from top to bottom. Everything else should be seen as extras to such an important day. Let us spend time in prayer with our families, constantly reminding ourselves of the reason for this day, discussing scripture and simply being humbled by this day.
The Persecuted Church
Please be in prayer for our brothers and sisters around the world that are being persecuted during this time. Let us use this time to reflect on what God has allowed in our lives, realizing there are many who are not so fortunate. There are many around the globe that are imprisoned and being tortured for Christ’s sake. There are also Americans such as Pastor Saeed Abedini who are being subjected to brutal persecution. Please pray for the persecuted church and their families.
## Next Year
Let each of us focus on how we can continue to honor the birth of Christ by carrying forward the Gospel into next year. Let us pray that God will conform us into being much bolder servants of His, carry a greater burden for the lost, be willing to go where we’re not comfortable and be emboldened with a fire for Him no man can put out. Let us not be silent in a world that continues to silence us. For souls are at stake!
From my family to yours, with brotherly love, Merry Christmas!
Peace and Grace!