The Reason for the Season Contains an Opportunity
There are many enjoyable things about the Christmas season.
For football fans, there are meaningful games, especially now that college football has an expanded playoff system. NFL teams have decided postseason berths in December throughout the Super Bowl era.
Outside of sports, people love their favorite Christmas movies. “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Elf” can bring a smile or gentle heartstring tug.
Families get together, churches gather for worship, and people seem to be in a little better mood for the most part. I’ve heard “Merry Christmas” more this year than in a long time. And it has seemed more genuine, for whatever reason.
Many things bring us joy during the Christmas season. And it’s great if we take a good minute or two to enjoy it.
On Christmas Day, many fortunate families will open presents and share a meal. Swap a few stories. Catch up on the lives of relatives we’ve been too busy to text.
All of these things add a little spice to the Christmas season. But here’s something to think about that can get lost in the shuffle of egg nog, wrapping paper, and family fun.
At this point, you may expect to read about Jesus being the reason for the season. This is the time of year when many Christians choose to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. But while celebrating Jesus’ birth, don’t miss the opportunity to point to why he came to Earth — to die for our sins and create salvation through his resurrection.
This is a great time of year to declare the Gospel. This is true even though some people will be open to hearing the word while others will resist it.
But remember, people are not converted by how we evangelize but rather by God working in their hearts. In his book “Evangelism and Sovereignty of God,” J.I. Packer reminded us of a simple truth. Packer wrote: “Evangelism is man’s work, but the giving of the faith is God’s.”
Go about things the right way. Engage in conversations with people because you care about their eternal souls. Meet people where they are. Listen.
But remember your advantage. It comes from the truth of Romans 1:20:
“For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.”
Human beings know God exists. It’s inescapable, even if people try to deny it. Also, remember that while they may be against you, you are not against them.
And if the conversation becomes tense or uncomfortable, pray without ceasing. Let Jesus, through the Spirit, guide your words.
Seek the joy of Luke 15:7,
“Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”
