If Jesus were here this Christmas in 2009, what would He give? Trust me, He would not be shopping at Macy's for Christmas gifts. I believe He would give the following:
1. Love to all the sinners and saints
2. Forgiveness
3. Peace on Earth
4. Hope to all
These are the same free gifts that you can extend to your family, friends, and yes, even those who may not like you. We are going into a new year; therefore, a new beginning. Let's do what Paul did "but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Phil 3:13-14).To extend those gifts may be hard, but ask the Lord to help. It is the highest calling.
Therefore give the gift of: 1) Unconditional Love. If someone has done something that hurt you, extend love to them with no strings and no expectations attached.
If someone says, "I love God," but hates a brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? (1st John 4:20 NLT). Therefore, send an ecard and say "I Love You"
2) Forgiveness. If someone has hurt you or you have unforgiveness in your heart, forgive them and call them letting them know everything is cool between the two of you.
"But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:15 NLT)
3) Peace. If you and another person have been fighting or haven't spoken in years, extend peace. Maybe you can visit that person or send an email.
"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." (Matthew 5:9)
4) Hope. I believe we give others hope when we share our experiences and lessons, when we witness to others the good news of Jesus Christ and what He has done in our lives.
This season extend hope to others. Ask Jesus to direct your path this season to use you for His glory. He may have you volunteer, witness to a stranger, give a testimony of His goodness to those you work with it. Just be open to do something for Him.
"For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die." (Philippians 1:20 NLT) Since Jesus is the reason for this holiday season, let's be like Him and do what He would do on the earth. These are gifts He freely gives us (continually); therefore, as He freely gave, you freely give.
We may not feel like doing those things listed above but the fact is that we are required to do them. You cannot look at the Bible as a menu that you pick and choose what YOU want to do. You can't select the blessing without first choosing to be obedient. I pray that God will strengthen you.
Merry Christmas by Jewell R. Powell © All rights reserved.
Love Ya,
In His Service
Jewell R. Powell, Author & Marriage Coach
Website: http://www.marriage101.us/
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Jewell R. Powell is a marriage coach, entrepreneur, inspirational teacher, and author with a heart and passion for helping couples have great marriages and helping women live purposeful lives. For more information on marriage enrichment and/or premarital classes, call 301-743-5654 or email Jewell at jewell@marriage101.us Blog Talk Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/Marriage-101
* Originally posted in the December edition of the, 'Happily Ever After' Newsletter by Jewell R. Powell.
