The Spirit of CHRISTmas

We all love this time of year! The month of December comes with all the joys of Christmas. But what is the real meaning of Christmas? Is it simply just anticipating the gifts under the tree? Is it sending Christmas cards to family and loved ones who you haven’t spoken to the entire year? Is it sitting around the table with family and friends? Could it be the outside filled with snow, snuggling up with your loved one, and shouting out “Merry Christmas" to everyone you see? Is this Christmas?

Luke 2: 4-19 says:

"So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 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.

This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

As we celebrate the birth of CHRIST, let us exemplify this season with forgiveness, kindness, generosity, and love. For many people, Christmas isn't a time of happiness and joy, it's a time of sorrow. Maybe you've lost a loved one and the holidays are extremely hard for you, but know that you have your brothers/sisters in Christ who are praying for your healing heart and loving up on you in spirit. Many families didn't have the extra money this year to buy presents for their children, family, and friends but through God, they've kept their faith in knowing that He is planning a major breakthrough in their lives. 

This holiday season your assignment from God will be fulfilled. Tis' the season of forgiveness, kindness, generosity and love. We encourage you all this holiday season to pay attention to how we respond to the people and loved ones in our lives. Make sure each moment is a perfect moment in God's eyes. Practicing these elements will give us a foothold on being more forgiving and leading happier, healthier, more productive lives. 

Happy Holidays from Brittney & Mark

XO