The Opportunities “Christmas” Brings
Food, family, fun and lots of fellowship come with most Christmas celebrations. Family time will be especially meaningful this year since last year at this time we had just buried my father. My heart reflects back to memories of Christmas past and I find myself experiencing moments of celebration and sadness.
Once I reflect on the true meaning of the season my mood shifts. I remember we have the opportunity to tell all who will listen that Jesus is the Light of the World and can bring purpose and direction to their personal experience.
After I remember the central meaning for the season the overwhelming feeling I have is a sense of opportunity. Christmas brings all who know the heavenly father’s love a special time of opportunity. Let me list three special opportunities we have this year and every Christmas season.
Celebrating Christmas Offers those who Love God an Opportunity to Affirm the “Good News” God Entered Human History through Christ
“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Remember God lives among us.
Celebrating Christmas Offers those who Love God an Opportunity to Acknowledge Christ as the Central Figure of History
“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile R all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven…” Colossians 1:15-21.
Remember history is His story.
Celebrating Christmas Offers those who Love God an Opportunity to Accept the Blessing of His birth and Challenge of Being His Ambassadors of Hope to a Lost and Dying World
“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold,
I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;
for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11
Remember to seize this year’s fresh opportunity to celebrate His presence, honor His place in human history and help others come to know and experience the love He came to give them.
Merry Christmas
Dr. Larry A. Mercer
Comments
humble runners.