Yes, it's that time of the year again, Christmas. People will be celebrating, eating well (if they are able) and rejoicing in the spirit of Christmas. Still others will suffer depression and heartache from a past memory that happened during this otherwise joyful season.
Pause and reflect
I've said it many times, Jesus was not born on Christmas Day as tradition tells us. Instead, he was likely born in August or September when shepherds would still be tending their flocks. This something they would not be doing in Israel in December!
Nevertheless, this is a great time for giving as opposed to receiving. I won't delve into what I gave this year but the only thing I asked for was a San Diego Padre's original jersey, which I got. Other than that, I want nothing.
Gifts & Exchanges
One of my primary pastors speaks about gifts and exchanges in his Christmas sermon. Now I know it is Sunday and many will be going to church today. The fact is, some people only go to church when it is convenient or when it is Christmas or Easter.
But live sermons and worship are always available online. Having said that, I'd like to invite you to hear the sermon by my pastor with the same title as the subheading.
It's free. You can watch it on Facebook or on his website. You may also sign up to receive a daily devotion for free.
I assure you this: this pastor is a straight shooter and will not stteer you wrong. He preaches the gospel and how we should live.
The invite link is here and I hope you will enjoy it. If you desire to skip the worship music (he's not into entertainment in his large church), you can cut past it.
https://www.facebook.com/pastorallenjackson/videos/420426659764498/
Will check out the sermon pretty soon.
I agree that most people only go to church church it is convenient, especially festive periods only but this shouldn't be so.