The Joy of Christmas

We had our Sunday School Christmas gathering this past weekend and as I looked around the room of single women - some widowed, some divorced, some never married,  I was reminded how much in our lives seems "missing."

And yet, as our pastor read from Luke and we prayed together, giving thanks for the greatest gift we've ever been given, I was reminded how very much we have . . . in Christ.

And that is why Billy Graham's message Don't Miss Christmas, really ministers to my heart.

In this message (available on the ministry web site), Mr. Graham notes that many homes are broken. Children are living with only one parent. And how during this past year, many hearts have been broken and many tears have been shed.

And yet, as he reflects, Christmas represents a hope, a unique joy, felt only at Christmastime, because Christ the Savior is born.  He shares how Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

To enjoy full life, there are four things Mr. Graham notes we need to do:

1. Read the Bible.  The Bible is food for your spiritual life, and it needs nourishment just as your body does. Through His Word, God speaks to you and reveals His plan for your new life.

2. Pray. Prayer is your lifeline to God. Start each day with prayer, and then pray throughout the day as needs arise. Take all of your problems and burdens to God because He is interested in everything you do: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."(3) God is with you and will answer your prayers.

3. Be Christ's witness. Wherever you go, you are His ambassador. Start living a life that is different, and look for opportunities to tell someone about salvation in Christ.

4. Attend a church where the Word of God is faithfully proclaimed. You can't be an effective Christian on your own, and fellowship with other believers can help you grow as a Christian.

As I looked around at my fellow Sunday School Class friends, I saw a room of women, yes single and experiencing a life reality not quite what they'd imagined and yet, all living full lives in Christ and yes, experiencing the joy of Christmas.

On behalf of the BGEA and the "Hour of Decision^®," may the joy of Christmas abound in your life!

Lee Ann Jackson

Ambassador

We Connect. Ministry and Media.

P.S. Thank you for your prayers as BGEA has recently announced their first festival of 2012: Sendai, Japan in March!

Download Promo Pack File »