The Gift of Christmas

The song; “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”, the popular Christmas song written by Edward Pola and George Wyle in 1963 rings true this time of year. This season comes with lots of fun, anticipation, excitement, enjoying time with family and friends and the giving and receiving of gifts. Its also a time of special customs and traditions that we hold so dear. But for many, this season can be a painful reminder of broken relationships, lost loved ones, or other difficult times, any of which can make the season the most lonely or sad time of the year.

Regardless of our feelings during this season, the receiving of gifts would often bring a smile to our faces. These caring and thoughtful expressions of love remind us that God has provided the best gift ever given! His gift is one we all need but could never afford. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus our Savior, he was given as a means of reconciliation between God and man. The gift of eternal life was purchased when Jesus, the sinless sacrifice died on the cross for our sins. Now He is risen from the dead and offers forgiveness and new life to everyone who approaches Him with a repentant heart and trusts Him as their Savior. Jesus Christ is God's gift to mankind, "for if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and shall believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you shall be saved" (Romans 10:9).

Here is where the true meaning of Christmas becomes clear to see. It’s all about God’s great love for us and the priceless gift that He offers to all. Even as we look over the year and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the pain that this time of year might bring, the good news is that there is still hope. This hope is found by looking up to the Father who sent his son, “that we may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). A life in God is a life lived in the fullness of who we were created to be in him.

There’s no better “Christmas gift” than the gift of eternal life and peace with God through Jesus Christ

To receive this gift; accept Jesus Christ alone as your savior. Pray this simple prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for making it possible for me to find peace with God. I know that I am a sinner and that I cannot save myself. By faith I gratefully receive your gift of salvation. I am ready to trust you as my Lord and Savior. I believe you are the Son of God who died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead on the third day. I receive your peace and unending love. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior. Amen.

If you have made a decision to embrace God’s love and want to talk to someone, send an email to: nextstepsab@gmail.com. We will love to pray for you and help you on your new journey.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and peace and joy in the coming New Year.