This Christmas

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy!" Matthew 2:10

"He hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of all sins." Acts 5:31

         This Christmas season has been filled with laughter, happiness, fun, and good times—everything ideal for this time of the year. But the one thing I have missed out on this season happens to be the only thing that matters at all. I am guilty of getting wrapped up (no pun intended) in the busyness of the holiday season. Any chance I got to run to the mall, pick up gifts, or wrap presents, I took it in a heartbeat. I loved seeing old friends, spending time with my family, helping out at my church, etc. All these things are good things, don’t get me wrong. But I have missed out on sweet time with my Jesus, the real reason for the holiday season.

         This afternoon at Second Baptist Church’s Christmas Eve service, Pastor Dave Riggle gave an incredible sermon about the true meaning of Christmas, as he chose to share with the congregation a story he heard recently about a member at our church. It goes a little something like this: A woman took her 6 year old grandson to the grocery store about a week ago, where they saw a friend of the grandmother’s. The friend bends down and asks the little boy what most adults ask children around Christmastime, which is: “what are you asking for for Christmas?” He looks up at her, “um, you asked the wrong question.” She chuckles and looks at him curiously as to what he has to say next. He says, “its not about me, its about Jesus. Its His birthday, not mine. We should be asking each other what we’re going to give to Jesus for His birthday.”

        I love this. What a great reminder of why we celebrate this holiday. So, what are you going to give Jesus for His birthday? All He wants from you is you. Your heart. Your life. This Christmas, give Christ your heart. This Christmas, celebrate who He is. This Christmas, thank Him for His unfailing love. This Christmas, make memories with Jesus. He is the sole purpose of this day. He is the sole purpose of your life. 

Merry Christmas to all! 


“For God came not to be served, but to serve and be a ransom for many” Mark 10:45