I believe this is the first year our Christmas decorations have gone up before Thanksgiving. I could be wrong as I can’t even remember what I wore yesterday. The signs of Christmas are all around us. When I see Christmas lights around the neighborhood, hear Christmas music on the radio, and begin to change the channels on the Christmas sales commercials on television, I know Christmas is fast approaching. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus, the only One Who can save us from our sins. The star in the east and the angelic proclamations were signs of the miraculous incarnation of Jesus that would bring hope to all mankind. Jesus saves all who trust in Him and repent of their sins. The angel Gabriel proclaimed, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

Advent is a time people prepare themselves to remember Jesus’ coming to the earth as a baby, coming into their lives as Savior, and His imminent return at the Second Coming. Christmas reminds us Jesus was sent by God, born of a virgin, fully God yet fully man to live among us and redeem us from our sins.

As you prepare your Christmas shopping lists, parties, and family gatherings, don’t forget to prepare your heart to worship the sinless Savior who took on flesh and dwelt among us so we could have eternal life in Heaven. Don’t let anything overshadow Jesus’ birth this season. Allow the Holy Spirit to change your heart for the most joyous time of Christmas you’ve ever experienced. Christmas is about the celebration of the birth of Jesus our Savior!

Question: What is more exciting about Christmas for you: the celebration of Jesus’ birth, time off of work and school, giving and receiving of gifts, or something else? If your Christmas priorities are out of order, what’s the first step you need to take to resolve it?

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stephenrharrison

Stephen and his wife Haley have called Arkansas home all of their lives. Stephen has served in several ministry roles over the last 25 years and as a lead pastor for the last 8 years. Stephen attended Williams Baptist College and earned a BA in Biblical Studies from Ouachita Baptist University, an MA, MDiv, and DMin in Christian Leadership and Pastoral Ministries from Liberty University. When not pastoring, Stephen enjoys running, cycling, reading, writing, camping, fishing, and spending time with his family.