WWJS

This is the time of year we celebrate the birth of Christ, and it is an event worth celebrating. Because of Jesus we have the Bible that allows Him to speak to us, fill us with wisdom, and comfort us and is preparing a home for us in heaven. Because of Him, we have the Holy Spirit who helps us understand scriptures, who pricks our consciences, and who serves each of us as our true soulmate.

We celebrate the fact that Jesus, who suffered a cruel death on our behalf, rose from the dead, seizing control of death from Satan. It was for this purpose that Christ was born. In other words, He as born to die. His resurrection saves believers from a sinful death. The victory had been won following 33 years of preparation, the age Jesus was when he died.

But, we all know people who, because of a death in the family, a tragic accident, depression, divorce, etc. do not feel like celebrating this Christmas. We all have the capacity to do or say something to lift the spirits of those people. Sometimes it is difficult to know what to do or say, but we can proceed with confidence knowing we cannot fail if we use Jesus's life and God's Word as the basis for our approach.

Satan may try to convince us that we cannot make a difference. Alone, we cannot make a difference, but with God's help we can. We need to ask ourselves not only "What would Jesus do?" the popular question being asked years ago, but "What would Jesus say?"

The greatest gifts we can give these people cannot be gift-wrapped. A bow cannot be tied around a kind word. And it would be difficult to wrap up words of encouragement. A listening ear is one of the best gifts without glitzy wrap. A Christmas card with a personal note written inside saying "I just want you to know you are still remembered and I am praying for you" may do more than a card with money inside.

Let's be careful not to be so caught up in "things" that we forget about people. Jesus is not as interested in our buying and receiving things as in our ministering to the needs of others in ways money can't buy. He cares more that we light up people's lives than our Christmas trees and decorated houses. Whatever we do unto them, we do unto Him (Matthew 25:40).

I challenge each of you to choose one person that you know is suffering and give that  person a gift of time and love. You may not have to look for such a person; God may put one in your path. Either way, if you wonder what to say when you approach that person, ask yourself, "What would Jesus say?" and pray that He will give you remembrance of Bible verses along with the right words to say.

Becky Wall

beckyowall.blogspot.com