If you know what our position is on the Christmas holiday you are likely to think that you know what this is about. Try again. It is not what you think! :-) Please take the time to look it over before you write it off.
Do you claim to celebrate Christmas in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ? Silly question, right? The commercialism and the lack of focus on Jesus Christ is something that has been a particular burden on my heart this year. Consequently, it seemed like a good idea to lay out some challenges to my fellow believers to attempt to get those of you who do celebrate to consider what you are doing, and why. Furthermore, it would be good to give up some of the things that are either contrary to sound reasoning (to say nothing of scripture) or excessive either in cost or behavior. Under the present circumstances worldwide, there is great virtue in simplifying your celebrations and making a point of spending less; or spending in a manner that takes Jesus Christ as the example.
A few excerpts from the introduction:
In Galatians 2:2 the Apostle Paul writes regarding his visit to Jerusalem, And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. This verse was brought to my attention in another context the very same day that I started writing this article. (God is like that, and I love Him for it!) It seems to me that there are so many Christians who, in the area of celebrating "Christmas", are running in vain…
…I urgently desire to see my fellow believers be more purposeful in what they do, especially when claiming that it is to the glory of God. Because of this, I am introducing a variety of challenges so that you may choose one or more that you feel you can truly accomplish. There will be some that are more challenging than others. Please prayerfully consider what the Lord would have you to do…
…You don't want to be like the people Jesus describes in Matthew 15:8, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
No comments:
Post a Comment