I imagine that most of you know what tomorrow is. It's Jesus' Birthday (AKA Christmas)!!! I hope as you finish wrapping that last present, or as you add those couple of marshmallows to your hot chocolate, you remind yourself of the real reason for this holiday season and all it encompasses: Jesus.
Jesus Christ came to Earth to be the Light of God, and I think rather than presents, cake, and balloons, Jesus wants us demonstrating our affections for Him by spreading that light, and we shouldn't just spread this love and joy to only Christians, but rather, every person we encounter!
God blessed each and every one of us beyond belief, and we should spread our gifts and talents to praise Him in any ways we can. Try and donate a little time or money (if you can) at some point this holiday season, but more importantly, be kind and love everyone like Jesus did.
I really love how church services give out candles before and during Christmas. It's like we really are symbolizing the light God brought to the world, along with the light inside all of us, and we get to spread that light to each person (kind of like passing the fire from candle to candle).
Do you ever just sit and think about how cool it is people all over the world celebrate one person's birthday? Plus, they do so by giving each other presents and (hopefully) bringing in an overall air of joy! I think while Jesus appreciates all the stockings, Christmas trees, lights, and glitter, what He really wants for us is cuddling up to our friends and family and telling them just how much they mean to us.
Kind of like THE greatest Christmas movie of all time (Elf), we welcome in Jesus every year with decorations and paper snowflakes, kind of like how Buddy the Elf invites Santa, but it's important we remember through this holiday, we should devote all this time worshipping and praising Him for all He has done for us now and throughout the year.
I hope sometime today, or in the coming days, you take a moment to pray. That prayer could look like anything really, but maybe it could just be a prayer of thanks for all He blessed you with this last year. Just try to remind yourself today is not your birthday, and it really doesn't matter if today and tomorrow aren't all you hoped for because you don't really need that new sweater or that new watch, but the world does need a whole lot more love and joy, which you do have.
Also, did I mention those things are free to share? Reach out to people you sometimes neglect or don't talk to. It makes you feel good and them, too! Just remember in the end, Jesus is overjoyed with all we do for him and all we are. Spread that light and joy!
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and of course, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!
Luke 2:14 - "Give glory to God in heaven, and on earth let there be peace among the people who please God."
