When the clerk says, “Happy Holidays”, I am quick to respond, “Merry CHRISTmas!” It makes me feel like I have taken a stand against an attack on my faith. I was busted by a friend last week that suggested if all Christians did a better job keeping CHRIST in Christian, Christmas would take care of itself.
A Christmas challenge - Keep Christ in the middle of every situation, discussion or decision you face across the season in honor of Jesus' birthday.
Tips on keeping CHRIST in Christian:
- Believe what Jesus believed – renew your mind in the word of God every day.
- Live as Jesus lived – not tolerant of sin but full of grace and truth.
- Love as Jesus loved – unconditionally and take relationships to a new level.
- Minister as Jesus ministered – as if working for the Father in all you do.
- Lead as Jesus led – as a servant leader that always points to the Father.
In his book Choose the Life, Bill Hull addresses each of the ablove and provides a beautiful compliment to scripture on what it means to keep CHRIST in Christian. Reflecting Christ in us where He has us, is the only way we can be an influence for the Kingdom in this world. A generation depends on it! As you choose the life, you will be a hero in your children’s eyes.
The Word on Christ-likeness: For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, that Jesus might be the firstborn among many brothers. – Romans 8:29 The natural tendency is to conform to the pressures and expectations put on us in this world but the word of God turns that upside down – to keep Christ in the middle of all we are and all we do, the mandate is to conform not to this world but to His likeness.
Prayer guide: Lord, thank You for the Word made flesh in Jesus so many Christmases ago, and for the example of His life on this earth. Forgive me for conforming to the pattern of this world with a dulled mind. Strengthen me with a renewed mind that is grounded in Your Word to boldly live a life that honors the glorious birth we celebrate this season. Amen.
Please comment on ways you can honor Christ where He has you this Christmas and beyond.
