Christmas 2.0

The Christmas decorating party was finished and the lights of the church had been turned off. In the parking lot, Tom, who had done the lion’s share of bringing the decorations out of the attic, turned and said to me, “Preacher, I am bringing my neighbor to our Christmas service. I hope your sermon is a lot better than last years!”

I think he was joking, but as a pastor, I know I will feel the pressure from Tom and others to make this Christmas memorable for their family, friends, and neighbors. From the youngest to the oldest, I also want them to be captured by the scriptures telling of the grace and mercy of our God. So, I confess that my expectations are also high. I find myself rethinking my sermons and our programs. Second guessing whether or not we should have allocated enough money to be like the big church in town and put together a service with an orchestra, light show, and perhaps a live donkey bringing Mary down the aisle.

We could, but is it our job to be entertaining or to teach the wonder of a Holy God providing salvation through the Lamb of God? They don’t really need a light show or a funny clever sermon. They need us to focus on the love God has displayed to us by sending His Son. This Christmas message is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. This is enough.

So, in this Christmas season carefully craft your words to keep the focus on God in the manger, angels singing, and shepherds testifying. But remember, in order for you to speak words that are grateful and joy-filled, you need to be well-rested, and laser-focused.

This year MB Foundation has been focusing on Jeremiah 17:7-8, “But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.”

As you navigate the Christmas season, I would ask you to take some time to pull away from the busyness. Give time for your roots to sink into the deep meaning of the Christmas story. Be with your family. Be intentional about sitting at the feet of Jesus. Make sure your heart has been filled with joy, peace, and hope so that you can pour into the lives of others.