Every year it kind of bugs me. We go to church. Everyone invites people to see this incredible service that happens once year. The music is great, there are lights flying everywhere, and then…..we hear the message about asking Jesus to be your Lord and Savior!
I get it. There are a lot of people who have never been to church before, maybe have never heard or realized that they have sinned and that Jesus will forgive them. This could be the one chance that they have at a relationship with Christ.
But, is that what Christmas really is about? If Jesus had some brand new folks come to the mountain would that be his message?
I think what bugs me so much is not that we are asking people to have a relationship with Christ, I just think it's too short-sided! Jesus being born in a manger is so much more than just about me!
"But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11)
If I were giving the Christmas message, I would talk about this new kingdom that Jesus came to be the king of. A kingdom where forgiveness reigns. A kingdom based on what's real and where peace comes before power - but there is plenty of power. I would speak about being able to tap into wisdom from the creator of the world and being able to call on that same creator for a few favors. I would talk about living with people who put others needs in front of their own and a culture that honors the "not so popular" in our world. I would talk about how we have a chance not only to revolutionize our own lives, but the world - or in the very least a part of it!
This Baby that born in a manger is so much bigger than me and Him. It is good news for all the people. This Christmas, we have a change to sign on to this world. We have a chance to be part of Jesus' kingdom. There is an opportunity for us not only to be reconciled to our God and those around us, but to help those around us experience this kingdom too!
Christmas is about families being the best families they can be. Workplaces being the best workplaces they can be. Communities being the best communities they can be. And that all starts when one person says, "I'm in" to Jesus.
That's what I would talk about at Christmas, but then again, I'm not really a pastor and am only writing this blog that nobody will ever read.
