Discover How to Be a Christian at Christmas (Special Christmas Edition)

Christian Treasures Devotion

SCRIPTURAL REFERENCE: Isaiah 9:6. NIV. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!

Janet flung the doors of her wardrobe open. Still in her pajamas, she moved closer and quickly scanned her closet. She noticed her numerous pairs of shoes lined up neatly on the shoe rack and examined the hangers where her bags were hung. Almost all the bags had matching shoes.

As she inspected her collection, she was astonished to find two pairs of shoes she had purchased during a promotion last Christmas that she had yet to wear.

Since the message from yesterday, she hadn't felt quite herself; it was as if the preacher had been speaking directly to her. She had attended a youth program titled "The Essence of Christmas" at her church. To her surprise—she was certain she was not alone in this realization—she discovered that she had not been living out the true essence of Christmas. She had not been a Christian during the holiday season. Thankfully, it was the holiday period, giving her the time to reflect on the message again in the early hours of that morning. Now, she resolved to eliminate things from her life that held no value to Christmas.

At almost twenty-four, she could pay her own bills. Some of her friends still turned to their parents for help at times, but she did not, thanks to her work as a broker at an insurance firm. She could afford many things that some of her friends couldn’t.

Her parents had raised her and her siblings under strict Christian principles. They rarely missed a Sunday service, and it was a family tradition to spend time together every Christmas. However, today something had shifted her perspective. Over the years, she had believed she was celebrating Christmas in a normal way, but the youth program organized by her church opened her spiritual eyes. She realized she owned a lot of personal items that she never used. Yet, despite her two brothers not needing them, she never decided to give them away.

“I have to do some give-away before going to my Christmas family reunion," she told herself, and then she started pulling out her unused personal items.

Today is the 25th of December, depending on your time zone. The message remains the same: celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Whether He was born in October, as some denominations believe, what cannot be disputed is the significance of Christ's birth for the whole world. In this season of celebration, if you look around, you’ll find that it's not just Christians who celebrate His birth; many people revel in the joy, sharing love, eating, and having fun, which is why it’s often referred to as the "magic season." Non-believers also enjoy the beauty of this time.

But what truly sets a Christian apart during this season?

1. Service to Humanity: This season is not meant for excessive shopping for yourself and your family; it's a time to show the Christ-like nature of loving others by sharing whatever you can. For example, consider visiting nursing homes.

2. Sober Reflection: Reflect on the birth of Christ. Are you truly living the life of Christ? The early disciples were called Christians in Antioch because of their conduct and lifestyle. Can someone observe you and say, “You have the nature of Christ”? Engage in soul-searching and meditate on the Word of God. Avoid being a spendthrift and watch out for impulse buying.

3. Lifestyle Choices: Be mindful of what you eat during this season, as it can greatly affect your health. Avoid excessive drinking if you are on a strict diet, and stay disciplined. Don’t start the New Year with health challenges.

4.*Financial Wisdom: It's essential to be prudent during this season and avoid falling into debt. With many amazing discount offers available, be cautious not to buy unnecessary items. Many people find that what they purchased wasn’t necessary after all. Use your credit cards wisely and be very careful about impulse buying.

5. True Celebration: A genuine Christian embraces the true meaning of Christmas, not forgetting those who are less fortunate, like the homeless. Visit the sick in hospitals; it will help you appreciate your health and not take it for granted. You may even choose to help with some hospital bills. Pray for the sick.

6. Support Orphanages: If you're able, visit orphanages. If you've ever taken your parents for granted, interacting with those without families will help you understand the value of your own loved ones.

7. Give Bibles as Gifts: Share the Word of God with individuals, families, or organizations. Consider volunteering at your local church.

8. Spread Love and Hope: Leave behind messages of love and hope wherever you go. Let's live out the true essence of Christ this Christmas season.