Backward Christmas: Do something different!

What was once a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, a Savior sent to earth for mankind, has become–in many households–a season of stressful shopping sprees, holiday parties, sugar overloads, and too much Santa.

When New Year’s Day rolls around, I can guarantee that most of us will be left with presents to return, debt to pay off, and pants that don’t fit anymore.

In our world of over exaggerated commercialism, don’t you start to feel like you’ve missed the purpose each year? I know I do (and I’m a believer), so I’m sure the rest of the world does.

We have the greatest story to tell! Out of the life of Jesus came salvation, promise, hope, rescue, and a revolutionary love. People need to hear and experience that story.

If anyone should be proclaiming the real meaning behind Christmas, it should be us. So I’d like to propose we do something different at Christmas this year—something out of your norm that will speak volumes about your faith and values.

Find an organization or ministry where you can reach out and help others this Christmas. Find a way to share the story of Jesus with others. Find a way to minister to the “least of these.” Find a way to get out of your comfort zone, throw off tradition, and give back to those who need Jesus.

Think about what could happen if everyone did this. Christmas may not be the year’s most popular holiday anymore; it might just become an annual world-shaking, life-changing encounter with the King.

[By Kaylan Christopher]