by Craig Stevenson, Associate Director

All over the world, people are gearing up to celebrate Christmas.  For many, this means last-minute shopping, rewrapping gifts that have been opened by dogs, cats or just curious members of the household, Christmas parties, time with family and many other things.  Among all of the chaos that normally defines this time of year, we have the awesome privilege of hitting pause on it all and truly celebrating the moment our world was changed forever.

The birth of Jesus.  Savior.  Messiah.

It’s amazing to stop and reflect on how this single event is still impacting our lives today.  We talk about it all the time in church, hear it on the radio and read about it on the internet.  Jesus came to the earth, lived a perfect life and died our death to pay for our sins.  Then resurrected the third day and because of this offers us salvation and a personal relationship with Him.

This ultimate free gift of salvation that has been given to us through Jesus is not only the reason we celebrate Christmas, but it is also the reason we share Christ with others, are actively involved in church and why we send missionaries to every nation.

This Christmas, take time to reflect on and celebrate the birth of Jesus, look for opportunities to serve others and share Christ with those around you.  Also, remember to pray for those who have given their lives to go to the mission field to spread the name and story of Jesus.