Every family seems to have their own unique ways of celebrating Christmas. Over the last couple of weeks, you may have been doing things to prepare for the holiday—decorating, baking, sending cards or buying gifts. As you finish those last few details, I want to remind you of what Jesus said in John 10:10: "I came so that you might have life—abundant life!" This Christmas, beyond the lights, beyond the music, beyond the gifts, God's message is still the same. He wants you to have abundant life through Jesus Christ and extend that life to others. More important than making our homes ready, we need to make sure our hearts are ready, both to receive Christ's love and to extend it to others.
Remember, everywhere you go, there are people who are in need. They may be smiling on the outside but on the inside they're hurting. All around us, people are dealing with family issues, health problems, rejection, broken dreams and low self-esteem. You never know how God can use you to bring life to others.
Did you know that every believer has a ministry? It may not be in the pulpit, it doesn't have to be overseas on the mission field, but God is counting on you to reach out to others and be His messenger of life wherever you go.
When you see someone who is down and go over and encourage them, you just released God's goodness and grace into that person. When you call a friend who is discouraged and say something like, "Hey, I'm thinking about you. I know there are good days up ahead for you," you just poured life into them.
This Christmas, remember that the true Christmas spirit is wrapped up in John 3:16—"God loved us so much that He gave His Son, Jesus, so that we can have eternal life." As you gather with family and friends, look for ways to share life and share His love this Christmas holiday and every day of the year!
If you've never received the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, click here for more information.